It is interesting to look at the Federalists through the lens of history. Hamilton, Madison and Jay were frequently spot on with their observations and predictions. Some of Hamilton’s arguments are a little hard to follow in their logic, but in spite of his occasional rhetorical license, he was right more often than not.

James Madison wrote the following letter in the interval between Constitutional Convention and its ratification by the States. It’s interesting for a number of reasons. Historically, it provides insight into Madison’s perspective on The Bill of Rights, why it was not included in the Constitution to start with, and his motivation for championing it after the Convention. By the time the Constitution was ratified, and the first Congress was in session, much of the political impetus behind it had dissipated. Madison persisted and mostly thanks to his efforts, the Amendments became part of the Constitution.

In this essay, Hamilton continues his arguments for an empowered federal government. This time his argument revolves around the proposition that the dangers of federal forces are the same faced by governments of any size. Furthermore, the people are better off if they can play the federal government off against the state governments, siding with one or the other to prevent usurpation by either.

Twitter is pretty good at making comparisons …

Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they aren’t out to get you! Here is a quick look at some parts of the narrative.

In this Federalist, Hamilton seeks to address concerns about the dangers of standing army. Many of his arguments are logical, but could also be applied to different ends. It is interesting to consider the connotations implied by some of the general principles that he lays out.

In this essay, Hamilton continues his arguments for an empowered federal government, positing that a highly engaged and active government (within the bounds of its enumerated powers), would be more likely to keep the peace and not have to resort to exercising its power in order to enforce order.

The Tea Party – Three Principles is an interesting and well-written book. It is not a paean to the Tea Party intended to fortify members of the faithful. Rather it is an intellectual examination of the principles behind the movement.

Here’s an idea. Print off a few copies of this image from thepeoplescube.com and put them in your car with a roll of tape. Next time you’re filling up your tank (and emptying your wallet), surreptitiously tape one of these to the front of the pump.

I have been a Suzy Bogguss Fan since the first time I ever heard her on the radio, driving around in my ’71 Pontiac, sometime in the late ’80′s.   I fell in love with her honey-smooth sweet voice from …