The Federalist Papers cover art

The Federalist Papers

The Federalist Papers

Written by: Dick Barr
Listen for free

About this listen

 A reintroduction and reading of the Federalist Papers, first penned in 1787-1788, to support and defend the Nation's New Constitution.

As you listen to the subsequent writings throughout this podcast, and contemplate the task they were trying to achieve, you might ask yourself if history is repeating itself and if our nation, its people and their representatives need a reminder on why this constitution is necessary to satisfy the nations need’s today as it did in 1787.

The ensuing podcasts will be relatively short, typically between 5 and 10 minutes each. They will consist of a brief summary of the Paper Number, followed by a full reading of the text, as originally published.Copyright Dick Barr World
Episodes
  • Federalist 25 - The Powers Necessary to the Common Defense Further Considered

    Federalist 25 - The Powers Necessary to the Common Defense Further Considered
    Nov 6 2023
    In Federalist Paper No. 25, Alexander Hamilton continues to make the case for a strong national defense, emphasizing the drawbacks of relying solely on state militias. Hamilton argues that state militias are generally ill-equipped and lack the discipline to effectively defend the nation against foreign threats. He suggests that a standing federal army, operating under the guidance of a centralized government, is essential for national security. By doing so, Hamilton seeks to debunk the idea that state militias could replace a federal military force, stressing that such an approach would weaken the United States in the face of external threats.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
  • Federalist 24 - The Powers Necessary to the Common Defense Further Considered

    Federalist 24 - The Powers Necessary to the Common Defense Further Considered
    Oct 29 2023
    Federalist Paper No. 24, authored by Alexander Hamilton, continues the discussion on the need for a robust centralized authority, this time focusing on the necessity of maintaining a standing army. Hamilton argues that local militias alone are insufficient for national defense. He addresses concerns that a standing army might be used for tyrannical purposes, contending that a well-regulated force under civilian control poses no such threat. The paper seeks to assuage fears about potential military despotism, making the case that a standing army is essential for the protection of the young nation, particularly against external threats.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
  • Federalist 23 - The Necessity of a Government as Energetic as the One Proposed to the Preservation of the Union

    Federalist 23 - The Necessity of a Government as Energetic as the One Proposed to the Preservation of the Union
    Oct 23 2023
    Federalist Paper No. 23, written by Alexander Hamilton, addresses the necessity of a strong central government in matters of national defense and security. Hamilton argues that the federal government must be empowered to handle all aspects of national defense, without any significant limitations. He outlines the unpredictability and diversity of threats that a nation could face, such as war, domestic insurrection, and interactions with foreign powers. According to Hamilton, these circumstances are so varied and unforeseeable that setting rigid restrictions on the federal government's ability to act would be imprudent. In essence, the paper makes the case for granting expansive powers to the national government in the realm of national security, contending that limited authority would inadequately protect the nation from external and internal threats.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
No reviews yet