The Dual-Party System: Thomas Jefferson And Alexander Hamilton

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After the American Revolution and America declared independence much changed within the newly independent nation. Particularly political and social, and to a lesser extend economically as well. After breaking away from the England Government Americans leaders formed the concepts of their ideal society. Independence brought change to woman and slaves. Woman gained more freedom and many slaves were set free. Politically, to have the least similarities to Britain as possible they created what was called the Articles of the Confederation. In 1787 a new Constitution was drafted. The drafted Constitution which granted power to tax, raise and handle the nations financing, create government owned business, the postal service enforced copyrights …show more content…

operates today. Federalist Alexander Hamilton was the first Secretary of the Treasure and Thomas Jefferson was appointed the first Secretary of State. Although both men had been active in the Revolutionary effort and in the founding of the United States, Jefferson and Hamilton did not work together (Holmes). Both men had opposing views on the path the nation should take. Jefferson believed that Americas success laid on its agrarian tradition (Holmes). Hamilton's economic plan turning point was on the promotion of manufacturers and commerce. While Hamilton distrusted popular will and believed that the federal government should use considerable power in order to steer a successful course, Jefferson placed his trust in the people as governors (Holmes). Hamilton's plan was to establish a bank like the one in England to maintain public credit; strengthening the states' debts under the federal government, and enacting protective tariffs and governments subsidies to encourage American manufactures. All these measures strengthened the federal governments power at the expense of the states. Jefferson opposed these views from Hamilton he feared that the Bank of the United States represented too much English influence, and argued that the constitution did not give congress the power to establish a bank. The federalist dominated the national government through the end of the 18th century. The Republican party emerged as organized opposition to the Federalist policies. It is said that Washington appointed both men to his side because of their opposing

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