The Federalist Papers, Federalist No. 14 summary

What happens

1. MADISON distinguishes direct democracy from representative government and argues that only the former requires a small territory.
2. He uses congressional attendance, distances, and European comparisons to show that representatives can govern across the United States.
3. He explains that federal powers cover shared concerns while State governments retain authority over matters they can manage themselves.
4. He identifies the union of thirteen States as practicable and presents improved transportation as an answer to distance.
5. He argues that distant border States receive protection that outweighs the inconvenience of sending representatives.
6. He urges Americans to reject disunion and judge the Convention's work through experience rather than rigid respect for precedent.

In this paper

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