Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Social Science Practice Test

Who were the authors of The Federalist Papers, which were signed under the pseudonym "Publius"?

1. Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay

2. Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and George Washington

3. James Madison, George Washington, and John Calhoun

4. Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and three others

The correct answer is: Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay

The Federalist Papers were a series of essays written in the late 18th century to advocate for the ratification of the United States Constitution. The primary authors, who collectively used the pseudonym "Publius," were Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay. These essays aimed to address the concerns of those wary of the new Constitution and to promote a stronger federal government. While other figures were involved in early discussions about the Constitution, the specific individuals named in the correct answer are the ones who composed the majority of the essays in The Federalist Papers. Their contributions were crucial in shaping the discourse around the Constitution and highlighting the principles of American governance. Other choices list individuals who were historically significant but did not co-author The Federalist Papers, which is why they do not align with the correct answer.