I have been chewing on these volumes - including the History of the Jefferson Administration - for some time, since before I started grad school.

A few words won't do nearly 3000 pages justice, but suffice it to say that I am grateful that I working through these concurrent with the 2010 elections, and the upcoming Bicentennial of the Second War with Britain - the War of 1812.

The political issues that I find so riveting are timeless, and the continued dialogue is part of the American experience. The President has been reviled by the 'out' party in every instance since Washington - that is, the advent of parties.

The basic arguments remain the same as well, an expansive view of federal power versus one limited by state sovereignty. What is fascinating is that the 'sides' have seamlessly switched arguments with the outcome of each election.

One further point of interest is how much Madison and Hamilton came to disagree over what they had wrought and argued for in the Federalist. By the turn of the century Madison has retreated back to the Virginia school, a Jefferson protege.

If you have a spare year or three, and are interested in politics, than these are well worth the time invested. ( )