A revolution in favor of government: origins of the U.S. Constitution and the making of the American state

Introduction: beyond Madisonian federalism

pt. I. Interpreting the debate over ratification. Legitimacy and meaning: the significance of public debate to the adoption of the Constitution ; The elusive meaning of the debate over ratification ; European states, American contexts ; The ideological response to state expansion

pt. II. Military powers. An impotent Congress ; Independence, commerce, and military strength ; A government of force ; Government by consent ; The Federalists and the uses of military powers

pt. III. Fiscal powers. Congressional insolvency ; Unlimited taxation, public credit, and the strength of government ; The costs of government ; A government for free ; The Federalists and the uses of fiscal powers ; Conclusion: the Constitution, the Federalist, and the American state.