I find it interesting to read up on these things because frequently I would find myself realizing that I would probably have been a Federalist. I have had debated with Libertarians about these things and all I can say is that the times were different and that the Federalist movement was the key to holding together the U.S.
I would like to recommend reading the "Founding Brothers", its a great read and is very short. I like long books myself but sometimes it is good to read a great book in a day or two. A vast number of pages does not equal wisdom all of the time.
As far as you being able to post here, I do not see a problem. Believe it or not, I originally heard about Freerepublic through the Freedem message boards. I was actually well-liked there but I left after a long period because of lack of dialogue. I asked this question...
"Why does your party oppose raising the amount of money a person can put in an IRA?"
This question was never answered in SIX MONTHS.
When they posted negative things, I was fascinated and checked FR out. I lurked for awhile and then started posting. This site is rough in regards to debates. That should not dissuade you as some of the most furious debates are between Libertarians and Conservatives. Its good entertainment! :D
I have been insulted a few times but I am a grown man and it was never malicious. I was actually told I was jealous of the Upper Middle Class when I said I did not want to pay more taxes for thier extended unemployment. I was getting my revenge or something like that. I replied that I do not do anything personally to them so if they think me wanting to avoid taxation to pay for them as an ataack, so be it. I avoid taxation from everyone. LOL!
Oh, I remember you! I talked with you a bit in your first posting to FR. Economics was the subject. To me, your welcome here anytime.
You might want to try to get on some ping lists of subjests that interest you. A ping list is when you get a NEW MESSAGE alert because someone sends you a thread. They have an automatic list.
Lets see, I myself am on a Black Conservative list, a Turkish list, and the MIlitary Canteen(Kind of like the USO.).
There are so many... just be warned that some of them are high volume, they will send all the info posted on FR that they can find about the subject matter at hand.
You should also remember that FR is a very big place. There are well over 60000 people registered alone, and god knows how many lurk or change accounts or even disrupt. So, if you run into some neanderthal, just be aware that not ALL of us are perfect... just most. :D