John Jay explains why foreign nations are more likely to respect — and less likely to attack — a unified United States.
In Federalist No. 4, John Jay deepens his argument that the United States must remain united to ensure peace and safety. Building on his earlier essays, he warns that foreign nations act not only out of necessity or self-defense, but also out of ambition, rivalry, jealousy, and opportunity. A divided America — thirteen small, loosely connected states — would invite aggression. A united America would deter it.
Jay emphasizes that powerful nations throughout history have taken advantage of weaker or fragmented neighbors. If the states remain separate, each would struggle to defend itself, negotiate effectively, or prevent hostile interference. Unity under a strong federal government is not just desirable; it is the only reliable defense against foreign ambition.
Key Arguments of Federalist No. 4
1. Foreign Nations Act on Ambition as Much as on Necessity
Jay notes that wars are often started for reasons other than defense. Foreign powers may be motivated by:
• commercial advantage
• territorial ambition
• political rivalry
• desire to weaken competitors
A divided America would appear vulnerable — an “easy prey” for larger nations seeking influence in North America.
2. A Unified Nation Is a Stronger Deterrent
A single federal government can maintain:
• a unified military strategy
• consistent foreign policy
• collective defense resources
• stronger negotiation power
A foreign power is far less likely to provoke or test a nation that speaks with one voice.
3. Disunity Invites Manipulation and Attack
If each state were responsible for its own defense and diplomacy, foreign nations could:
• pick off weaker states
• play states against each other
• exploit border disputes
• manipulate trade agreements
Jay warns that competitors would use diplomacy, economics, and even military pressure to divide the states further — a tactic well-documented in European history.
4. Strong Leadership Protects Peace
Jay argues that national leaders, accountable to all Americans, are better positioned to avoid unnecessary wars.
Local leaders might:
• escalate minor grievances
• respond emotionally to localized disputes
• or be pressured by regional loyalties
National leaders, on the other hand, must consider broader consequences.
5. The Constitution Is America’s Best Defense Against Foreign Threats
By centralizing diplomacy and military coordination, the Constitution creates structural protection.
The Articles of Confederation, by contrast, leave the states exposed.
Modern Relevance
Jay’s warnings mirror many global dynamics we still see today. Fragmented governance — whether between states, regions, or nations — creates inconsistent policies, weak defense coordination, and susceptibility to political manipulation.
In an era of:
• cyber warfare
• international disinformation campaigns
• economic competition
• global humanitarian crises
coherent national policy is essential.
Jay’s argument is timeless: unity strengthens peace; fragmentation weakens it.
Herald Ethical Insight
A core principle of ethical governance is stability. Peaceful, cooperative societies are better able to protect the vulnerable — human or nonhuman — and to confront long-term challenges like climate degradation, exploitation, or injustice. Jay’s reasoning supports a broader truth: compassion and security grow in the same soil. Without stability, ethical progress cannot take root.
Federalist No. 4 helps us see the Constitution not only as a legal framework, but as a moral strategy for preserving the conditions in which justice can flourish.
Lesson in Liberty
Unity is the strongest defense against aggression. A nation divided invites conflict; a nation united commands respect.
The Humane Herald 