author
John Jay
1745–1829
A leading voice of the American founding, this statesman helped shape the new nation at home and abroad, from diplomacy after the Revolution to the early Supreme Court. His career blends politics, law, and public service in a way that still feels central to the story of the United States.
3 Audiobooks
The Federalist Papers
by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison
The Federalist Papers
by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison
The Federalist Papers
by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison
About the author
Born in New York City in 1745, John Jay became one of the most important public figures of the early United States. He trained as a lawyer, supported the cause of independence, and served in the Continental Congress during the American Revolution.
Jay went on to play major roles in diplomacy and government. He helped negotiate the Treaty of Paris that ended the Revolutionary War, served as secretary for foreign affairs under the Articles of Confederation, and became the first Chief Justice of the United States in 1789. Later, he was elected governor of New York.
He is also remembered for the treaty with Britain that came to be known as Jay's Treaty, a deeply debated agreement that aimed to ease tensions between the two countries. John Jay died in 1829, leaving behind a public life closely tied to the founding and early direction of the United States.