The Federalist Papers

Discover the Genius of the Constitution

Thomas Jefferson described The Federalist Papers as “the best commentary on the principles of government, which ever was written.”

In this free ten-lecture course you will gain a deeper understanding of the purpose and structure of the American Founding by studying the arguments of America’s most influential Founders. Written between October 1787 and August 1788, The Federalist Papers is a collection of newspaper essays written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay in defense of the Constitution.

Taught by Hillsdale College’s politics faculty, this course explores the major themes of this classic work of American politics, such as the problem of majority faction, the importance of separation of powers, the nature of the three branches of government, and the argument concerning the Bill of Rights.

By enrolling in this course you will receive free access to the course lectures, readings, and quizzes to aid you in this examination of the greatest Constitution ever written.

We invite you to join us today in this urgent study of the Constitution and what has been lost by the modern assault on it.  


Enroll in this free online course on The Federalist Papers today!

To enroll in “The Federalist Papers,” please enter your email address.

What students say

The instructors are very good. The tests make you think. There are other helpful discussion screens and the whole process makes it feel much like a classroom setting. I feel the Federalist Papers are somewhat difficult to read on your own, so this course makes it much easier to understand.

– Tom


This online course, “The Federalist Papers,” pulls the original writers and their times right into ours, today in the 21st century. Deepest appreciation to the lively, scholarly presentations and thought-provoking quiz questions.

– Gloria


The lectures are terrific and are delivered in an interesting, clear, and fluid fashion. I’m enjoying the course very much. Thank you!

– Gus