Hamilton (the author of most of the federalist papers) would most identify with todays left. As would Washington, and Adams. Jefferson was most identifiable wit

Hamilton (the author of most of the federalist papers) would most identify with todays left. As would Washington, and Adams. Jefferson was most identifiable with the right. I think the anti federalist papers were certainly interesting, but Jefferson’s construction of a party system in America with a strict constitutional interpretation, an emphasis on agrarian life, states rights, etc., vs Hamiltons loose constitutional interpretation, central government focus, emphasizing commerce, science, and industry, a no party system, and a firm belief in humanist liberalism is more explanatory of where we are today. Hamilton was so convinced the constitution assured freedom he did not support the bill of rights feeling it was self evident from the constitution. Interestingly it was Jefferson and Madison, sitting on the anti federalist side (not having written any of the responses afaik), pushed for the bill of rights and Hamilton initially resisted it. It was an amazing time in history, with incredible foresight but much more importantly hindsight. I highly recommend reading the federalist papers and the responses (anti federalist), but also the modern biographies of the founding fathers. They were fascinating and flawed humans, but coming away from the exercise I was convinced they set the stage for the modern world to exist.