The Federalist Papers: Federalist No. 7 Summary & Analysis

Alexander Hamilton puts forward his belief that disunion would lead to internal conflicts over territory, commerce, debt, and foreign alliances, making war between the states inevitable. He highlights past territorial disputes, such as those involving western lands and the Wyoming Valley, as evidence that states would struggle to settle claims peacefully without a central authority. Commercial rivalries would further fuel discord, as wealthier states could impose trade policies that disadvantage others, leading to economic retaliation and potential conflict.

Hamilton also warns that disagreements over the national debt would create resentment, as states with fewer creditors might resist repayment, while others would demand their fair share. Without a unified government, states might default on their obligations, causing international tensions and internal disputes. Additionally, he notes that individual states have already passed laws violating private contracts, suggesting that, without federal oversight, economic instability and retaliatory measures would escalate into violence. Foreign alliances would further divide the states, drawing them into European conflicts and making them vulnerable to manipulation. Without unity, America would become entangled in foreign wars and subject to the strategies of stronger nations seeking to exploit its divisions. Hamilton argues that without a strong national government, the states would be more likely to fight each other than defend against external threats, ultimately leading to their downfall.