Alexander Hamilton Political Views

Alexander Hamilton and other Federalists had a distinct vision for the direction America would take. They believed the country required a strong national government with a centralized authority, a complex commercial economy, and a significant presence in world affairs. (American History, p170). Thomas Jefferson and his followers envisioned a nation that would progress in a different direction. They believed the nation should focus on agriculture and remain mostly rural. They also wanted most of the power left in the hands of the states and the people, and not in a central government. Although this group of republicans had their own beliefs in respect to economy, education, culture, and politics, their vision did not always translate to

They had an outlook of localism and simplicity. However, most Americans wanted not only cultural independence, but also a literary and artistic life that would rival Europes. This newfound quest first surfaced in schoolbooks such as Noah Webster’s American Spelling Book. His books would establish a national standard for words and usage. Other important work by American authors such as Mercy Otis Warren with her History of the American Revolution. This historical piece instilled a sense of nationalism in the American People. (American History, p186)
Jefferson worked hard to minimize the glamour the past Presidents brought to the office. He viewed government itself in the same way. Once in office, he began decreasing the nations debt and eventually abolish all internal taxes. This left the sale of western lands and customs duties as the only source of revenue. Jefferson drastically reduced the nations armed forces cutting the size of the army almost in half and significantly reducing the size of the navy.
Jefferson and his followers had a significantly different view from the previous group of Federalists. They feared a large central government and mob cities of Europe. Although they wanted America to remain a farming republic comprise of small towns which favored localism, that did not evolve into

During the early nineteenth century the British Navy was comprised mostly of sailors that were impressed, or forced, into service. This led to a significant number of British sailors deserting at the first opportunity. To counteract this practice, British ships claimed the right to board American vessels to reimpress deserters. An inevitable skirmish took place when an American commander refused to allow the British to search his ship which resulted in several wounded and killed. This led to an embargo which prohibited American ships from sailing to any foreign port. Trade was eventually reopened but not before it created a serious depression through most of the nation. (American History, p206)
Increasing conflict with the Indians was also a factor that led to the War of 1812. America continued to acquire land from the Indians. In the northwest it was through treaties while it the southwest it was through force. There were also two factors that contributed to further conflict. To the north, British colonial authorities feared an American invasion of Canada so they began providing the Indians with weapons and supplies. Several important Indian leaders also emerged who attempted to reignite the resistance of white settlers seizing their land. (American History,