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Differences Between Hamilton And Thomas Jefferson

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Differences Between Hamilton And Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and Alexander Hamilton, one of the country’s Founding Fathers, were both influential figures who strived to better the country. Jefferson believed that the power shall rest in the states, while Hamilton believed in a strong central government. These are only two of the differences that lead people to believe that “We should honor Jefferson, but we live in Hamilton’s country.” This quote is apparent in United States History, especially between 1789 and 1877. Although Jefferson and Hamilton both sought to advance the United States, they had different advancement approaches. Jefferson and Hamilton’s economic policies differed significantly, however both Founding Fathers believed that …show more content…
Hamilton believed in a strong central government that sponsored transportation improvements. He believed that the government was necessary to provide structure so that businesses and industry could grow. Hamilton also envisioned the United States as an industrial power. This theory of a strong central government that promoted improvements in transportation proved to be true in the America. we know today. As years went on, the government became centralized and promoted improvements. One major transportation improvement was the railroad which first appeared in the United States in 1828. Also, highways were conceived and developed, and were successful in transporting products and people. These are just two examples of “Hamilton’s country” that “we live in.” In contrast, Jefferson did not support a strong central government, as he preferred for the power to rest in the states. Jefferson believed in a strict interpretation of the Constitution, and that the federal government should not interfere in commerce. While Jefferson raises a good point about interference with trade and business dealings, the United States was in need of regulated commerce so that mass disruptions, such as the Whiskey Rebellion, would not

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