Adopted Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“If the Constitution is adopted (and it was) the Union will be in fact and in theory an association of States or a Confederacy.”
About This Quote
Source The Federalist Papers, No. 15, 1787
The Constitution creates a union that is both a practical and theoretical association of states.
In simple terms: The Union is both real and conceptual.
Key Takeaway
Understand the dual nature of federalism.
Themes
politics
constitution
union
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- lawmaking
- intergovernmental relations
- policy debates
Key Concepts
federalism
state sovereignty
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “theory” imply for state power?
- How does this shape modern governance?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations can differ over time.
![“[W]ar is a question, under our constitution, not of Executive, but of Legislative cognizance. It belongs to Congress to say whether the Nation shall of choice dismiss the olive branch and unfurl the banners of War.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bd8/alexander-hamilton-619_banner_w-ar-is-a-question-under-our-constitutio_33383.jpg)
![“It is one thing to be subordinate to the laws, and another [for the Executive] to be dependent on the legislative body. The first comports with, the last violates, the fundamental principles of good government; and, whatever may be the forms of the Constitution, unites all power in the same hands.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be4/alexander-hamilton-619_body_it-is-one-thing-to-be-subordinate-to-the_129196.jpg)
