The purpose of the Federalist Papers was to promote the ratification of the U.S. Constitution by explaining its principles and advocating for a strong central government. Authored by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, these essays addressed concerns about the potential for tyranny while emphasizing the need for a unified nation. They articulated the benefits of a federal system and outlined mechanisms of checks and balances, aiming to persuade states to support the new framework of governance. The Papers remain a key reference for understanding the intentions behind the Constitution and the philosophy of American democracy.