John Stuart Mill on Federation, Civilization and Empire

This article explores John Stuart Mill's career-long interest in federal models of politics. Demonstrating how Mill's multi-faceted account was shaped by his understanding of civilization and empire, it argues that Mill was far more committed to federalism — as historical phenomenon, solution to contemporary political crises, and ideal for the future organization of humanity — than is usually recognized. From his readings of ancient Greek history, through his reflection on the United States constitution, to his musing on the fate of Europe and the British colonial system, federalism formed an important part of Mill's vision of politics, past, present and future.