A Document That Shaped A NATION The Federalist papers, 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison in support of the adoption of the U.S. Constitution began appearing in New York newspapers beginning in the autumn of 1787. The Federalist Papers explain the complexities of a constitutional government, its political structure and principles based on the inherent rights of man. Scholars have long regarded this work as a milestone in political science and a classic of American political theory. Today The Federalist Papers are as important and vital a rallying cry for freedom as ever.