Differing Views: Jefferson vs. Hamilton in American History

Thomas Jefferson, the Secretary of State, and Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury, were key figures in American history with differing political views. Jefferson was a Republican while Hamilton identified as a Federalist. Jefferson strongly opposed Hamilton's financial plan, government power interpretation, foreign policy stance, and vision for America. He feared that Hamilton's economic strategy could weaken democracy, his view on government power might endanger slavery's continuation, his Pro-British foreign policy could result in an American monarchy, and his Oligarchy government vision contradicted Jefferson's democratic beliefs.

Jefferson strongly opposed Hamilton's detailed financial plan for America, which aimed to secure the country's independence by accumulating wealth and power. Hamilton proposed creating industry to generate wealth and justified establishing a national bank by interpreting the “necessary and proper” clause loosely. He argued that the bank was necessary and useful for his plan, as it would benefit the rich and boost the government's wealth and influence. However, Jefferson criticized Hamilton's plan for its flaws.

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Thomas Jefferson warned of the dangers of destroying democracy in America. In his notes on the state of Virginia, he emphasized the importance of independent workers in preserving democracy, stating that corruption among workers could lead to manipulation in voting and ultimately result in an Oligarchy. Jefferson opposed Alexander Hamilton's financial plan, as he believed it would concentrate power in the hands of a few wealthy individuals, leading to a loss of political independence for the working class.

Jefferson opposed Hamilton's broad view of the government's authority, especially regarding the "Necessary and Proper" clause.

Hamilton contended that "Necessary often means nothing more than needful," enabling significant power. This perspective justified establishing a National Bank to oversee commerce and tax collection. Conversely, Jefferson favored a strict reading of the Constitution, asserting that only essential laws should be enacted, not merely convenient ones. He stressed that any powers not specifically delegated to the United States by the Constitution belonged to the states or individuals.

Thomas Jefferson disagreed with Alexander Hamilton's understanding of the Constitution for various reasons. He believed that the powers granted by the bank bill were not authorized by the Constitution. Additionally, Jefferson was concerned that a broad interpretation of the Constitution could jeopardize slavery, a practice he endorsed. Lastly, Jefferson viewed Hamilton's exploitation of the "Necessary and Proper" clause to establish a bank as a means for him to promote his financial agenda, which contradicted Jefferson's principles and objectives.

Jefferson opposed Hamilton's foreign policy, as Hamilton was pro-British while Jefferson was pro-France during the war between the two countries. Hamilton supported the British monarchy and hoped for their victory, believing that it would lead to the spread of monarchy throughout Europe and the adoption of an oligarchy government in America. He believed this form of government would lead to success, citing Britain's flourishing as an example. Hamilton expressed his disdain for popular rule by stating, “The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge or determine right. Give to the first class a distinct, permanent share in the government” (Doc. 6), arguing that power should be held by a few rather than the changing and ambitious masses.

Hamilton criticizes Jefferson for constantly changing his beliefs and having a strong preference for France over Great Britain. Hamilton disagrees with Jefferson's foreign policy views, calling them unsound and dangerous. On the other hand, Jefferson believed in a democratic government where power is shared among all people and supported the French for various reasons.

Thomas Jefferson's motivations for supporting France in their war against the British stemmed from his desire to honor the treaty between America and France. Additionally, he opposed the spread of monarchy in Europe as it would hinder his goal of establishing a democratic form of government in America. Jefferson's distrust of a powerful government and the elite is evident in his belief that it would be oppressive and prioritize the comfort of governors over the rights of the people. He believed that small farmers who were educated, disinterested, independent, and owned land would govern better than the elite. These criteria influenced Jefferson's disagreement with Hamilton's foreign policy.

Hamilton and Jefferson held contrasting views on the future of America. Hamilton advocated for an Oligarchy government, with power in the hands of the elite, unlike Jefferson who favored a more democratic approach. Hamilton hoped for Britain to prevail in the war so that America could emulate its success with an Oligarchy government. He also emphasized the significance of a robust manufacturing sector in driving America's future prosperity.

Hamilton's report on Manufacturing emphasized the importance of both manufacturing and agriculture in a country's economy. He believed that a country with both sectors would be more successful than one with only agriculture, as manufacturing would help generate wealth. Hamilton argued that America needed to prioritize industry to produce and export goods in order to pay off its debts and thrive economically. Conversely, Jefferson advocated for a democracy in America where power was held by small farmers, creating a Virtuous Republic. He opposed the idea of an elite-run government and preferred more agriculture among farmers to maintain democracy, fearing that industrialization would undermine it.

Ultimately, Jefferson and Hamilton had differing views on many issues. Despite their disagreements, they both succeeded in implementing their desired policies. Today, our country operates under a democratic government while also engaging in industrial manufacturing and international trade to maintain economic stability. The power now lies with the people, representing a shift from traditional power dynamics to equality among all individuals.