Click on one of the 5 documents to learn more (March 28, 2001) Declaration of Independence written and put into effect in 1776  Written by Thomas Jefferson  Articles of Confederation Drafting began in 1776 John Hanson (First president under Articles of Confederation) Took several years to become effective Federalist Papers Written  between 1776 and 1789 Written mainly by James Madison with  Alexander Hamilton, John Jay  The three authors used the pen name "PUBLIUS"  U. S. Constitution  Mainly written by James Madison  Effective in 1789  George Washington (First president under the Constitution)  Bill of Rights (and later amendments) Written by James Madison in 1789 Took two years to become effective