Apr 17
Remembering Benjamin Franklin 223 years after his passing
April 17 is the 223rd anniversary of Benjamin Franklin’s death in 1790, at the age of 84. We remember him well—particularly in Philadelphia.
Feb 27
Federalist No. 62: Reflections on the “stability” of the Senate
On this day in 1788, The Federalist No. 62 was published, detailing the character and role of the Senate. Here’s an overview of what the essay said—and why it matters today.
Feb 12
The three-fifths compromise: Rationalizing the irrational
On this date in 1788, Federalist No. 54 was published, defending the portion of the Constitution that counted slaves as three-fifths of a person.
Feb 6
Why James Madison thought ambition was a good thing
On the anniversary of The Federalist No. 51, Don Applestein Esq. explains how James Madison thought ambition—in moderation—was essential for democracy.
Nov 15
Looking back at America’s forgotten first constitution
Today marks the 235th anniversary of America’s “other” constitution. But how many of us know when it was created and how and why it was adopted?
