The Independent Journal published the first Federalist essay in 1787, closely following the Constitutional Convention. This was one of 85 essays that were all soon published in support of the Constitution. The essays were all published under the pseudonym “Publius”. All the essays were collected in a single volume entitled The Federalist Papers. The Federalist Papers are considered a significant example of American political philosophy under the Articles of Confederation, adopted by the Continental Congress. The Articles established the first legislative system that unified the thirteen states that fought in the American Revolution. One of the major themes discussed in the essays revolves around the idea that the United States could not continue to resist under the Articles of Confederation and the weaknesses that accompany it. The Articles gave states the authority to create their own laws, however they failed to create a strong government. The essay suggested that immediate action be taken to prevent the impending anarchy that would result from these articles. Philosophers who shaped and influenced the Federalist include Thomas Hobbes, Jean Jacques Rousseau, Montesquieu, and John Locke. These philosophers believed in natural rights and built branches of government that protected these natural rights. They believed that all men were instinctively selfish individuals and strived for self-preservation. From their point of view, balancing man's selfish desires and the desire to safeguard the community would be the ideal form of government for man. These philosophers built their ideas around the theory that too much freedom is bad for society. To avoid creating a strong central government comparable to the Big B system...... middle of paper......al. Alexander Hamilton and James Madison were the actual authors of The Federalist Papers. They were strong supporters of the United States Constitution and wanted to show people the flaws of the old system. More and more states became interested in these changes and decided to meet in Philadelphia on May 25, 1787. On this date the Constitutional Convention was held, and the United States Constitution was presented as a new plan of government that would completely replace the old system. This new plan called for a strong central government that would have ultimate authority over legislation and law enforcement. Federalist documents supported replacing the Articles of Confederation and called for a strong central government. They convinced citizens that this new form of government would build stronger national unity and provide greater protection overall.