The Federalist Papers · Chapter
XXVIII: The Same Subject Continued (The Idea of Restraining the Legislative Authority in Regard to the Common Defense Considered) explained
Hamilton argues that the national government must have the power to use force, including a standing army, to suppress insurrections and rebellions.
What happens
Hamilton argues that the national government must have the power to use force, including a standing army, to suppress insurrections and rebellions. He contends that the people's ultimate security lies in the representative nature of the government and the ability of state governments to check federal usurpations. The large extent of the country and the balance between state and federal power make despotism unlikely.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because Hamilton directly confronts the most emotionally charged accusatio…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Federalism and the Necessity of Union
Hamilton argues that a large union provides security against both foreign threats and domestic insurrection, and that state governments serve as a check on federal power.
- Republican Government and Representation
The essay emphasizes that the whole power of the proposed government is in the hands of the people's representatives, which is the essential security for rights.
- Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances
Hamilton describes how state and federal governments check each other, and how the people can use one to redress invasions by the other.
- Human Nature and the Capacity for Self-Government
The essay acknowledges that seditions and insurrections are inevitable in all societies, but argues that a large republic with informed citizens can resist tyranny.
Characters to notice
- Publius
Author of the essay, addressing the people of New York.
- Alexander Hamilton
Primary author of this Federalist Paper, arguing for federal military power.
- Congress
Implied as the legislative body whose authority is being considered.
- The Senate
Referenced indirectly as part of the national government.
- The Judges
Mentioned in the context of legal authority and the laws.
Key passages
“That there may happen cases in which the national government may be necessitated to resort to force, cannot be denied.”
It is undeniable that the national government may sometimes need to use force.
Opening assertion justifying federal military power.
“If the representatives of the people betray their constituents, there is then no resource left but in the exertion of that original right of self-defense which is paramount to all positive forms of government.”
If elected officials betray the people, the only remaining option is the natural right of self-defense, which overrides any written laws.
Hamilton argues that ultimate sovereignty rests with the people.
“The people, by throwing themselves into either scale, will infallibly make it preponderate.”
The people can tip the balance of power by supporting either the state or federal government.
Describes the people's role in the federal-state balance.
