Can liberty be preserved across a continent? In 1787, the historical record said “no.” The Roman and contemporary Russia, China, and Ottoman Empires were glaring examples. Not everyone was buying the Federalists’ argument that the federal structure of the Constitution, in which smaller republics were represented in the umbrella republic, would keep the new government in check. As pundits and patriots today wonder if resolution of the centrifugal forces that threaten the American Union is possible, perhaps we can find solace in the words of James Madison. From the 14th Federalist: I submit to you, my fellow-citizens, . . ....