Federalist Paper #85, titled “Concluding Remarks,” is the final essay in the Federalist Papers series, where Alexander Hamilton offers a powerful defense of the proposed Constitution and responds to remaining objections. In this concluding essay, Hamilton reflects on the strengths of the Constitution, the importance of ratification, and the benefits it offers to the American people.

Hamilton begins by addressing the claim that the Constitution is imperfect. He acknowledges that no human creation can be flawless but argues that the Constitution is the best framework available for the new nation. He writes, “I never expect to see a perfect work from imperfect man.” Hamilton asserts that the Constitution’s system of checks and balances, separation of powers, and federalism provide a solid foundation for a stable and effective government.

Hamilton emphasizes that the Constitution is a product of compromise, designed to balance the diverse interests of the states and the people. He argues that the framers carefully considered the needs of both large and small states, as well as the interests of different regions and economic classes. Hamilton writes, “The compacts which are to embrace thirteen distinct States in a common bond of amity and union must necessarily be a compromise of as many dissimilar interests and inclinations.”

One of the key points Hamilton makes in this essay is the need for unity and the dangers of delay in ratification. He warns that failure to ratify the Constitution could lead to disunion, conflict, and the eventual collapse of the American experiment in self-government. Hamilton writes, “A nation without a national government is, in my view, an awful spectacle.” He stresses that the Constitution represents the best hope for preserving the Union and securing the blessings of liberty for future generations.

Hamilton also addresses the possibility of future amendments to the Constitution, acknowledging that changes may be necessary as circumstances evolve. However, he argues that the amendment process outlined in the Constitution is sufficient to address any necessary changes without risking the stability of the government. He writes, “If, therefore, the Constitution is to be altered, it can be altered only through the mechanism which the Constitution provides.”

In his concluding remarks, Hamilton expresses confidence in the wisdom of the American people to recognize the value of the Constitution and to support its ratification. He urges his fellow citizens to seize the opportunity to establish a strong and lasting government that will protect their rights and promote their prosperity.

Key Takeaways:

1. Hamilton acknowledges that the Constitution is not perfect but argues that it is the best available framework for the new nation.
2. The Constitution is a product of compromise, balancing the diverse interests of the states and the people.
3. Unity is essential, and failure to ratify the Constitution could lead to disunion and conflict, threatening the American experiment in self-government.
4. The amendment process provided by the Constitution is sufficient to address future changes without risking government stability.
5. Hamilton expresses confidence in the American people to recognize the value of the Constitution and support its ratification.