Historical Research Library

Antifederalist No. 1, 1787

An early critique of the proposed Constitution, arguing the dangers of a centralized government and advocating state sovereignty

Antifederalist No. 9, 1787

A critique of the proposed Constitution, expressing concerns over centralized power and the potential threat of an elite ruling class

United States Constitution, 1788

A unique framework for a new government based on the idea of the consent of the governed

Federalist No. 84, 1788

One of 85 essays advocating the ratification of the Constitution, focusing on Antifederalist concerns about the need for a Bill of Rights

Antifederalist No. 84, 1788

An expression of Antifederalists desire for a Bill of Rights in the US Constitution

Antifederalist No. 46, 1788

An expression of Antifederalists’ concerns over federal power and the potential for tyranny in the proposed US Constitution

Federalist No. 51, 1788

One of 85 essays advocating the ratification of the Constitution, providing insight into the different branches of government, particularly the importance of checks and balances and the separation of powers

George Washington’s First Inaugural Address, 1789

Precedent-setting speech that emphasized national unity, civic duty, and the importance of the Constitution, which set the tone for his presidency

The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, 1789

Autobiography detailing Olaudah Equiano’s enslavement, his journey to freedom, and fight against the slave trade

Hamilton’s Report on the Subject of Manufactures, 1791

The third part of Alexander Hamilton’s vision for the economy advocated industrialization, tariffs, and government support for infrastructure

Bill of Rights, 1791

The first ten amendments to the United States Constitution—hard-fought additions that protect some individual liberties and limit government power

George Washington’s Farewell Address, 1796

Washington’s warning against political divisions and foreign entanglements