Flashcards for "Jefferson vs. Hamilton Rivalry

What defined the rivalry between Jefferson and Hamilton?

Opposing visions for America: Jefferson advocated for an agrarian, decentralized government with states’ rights, while Hamilton pushed for industrialization, a centralized government, and a strong federal system. Created the federalists and Democratic-Republican parties

What were the core beliefs of Hamilton’s Federalist Party?

A strong central government to address domestic and foreign issues, industrial growth, tariffs, federal policies supporting business, and pro-Britain for trade and stability.

What were the core beliefs of Jefferson’s Democratic-Republican Party?

Weak central government, strong states’ rights, an agrarian economy focused on farmers and rural laborers, and a pro-France stance emphasizing revolutionary ideals and opposition to monarchy.

How did Jefferson and Hamilton differ on the economy?

Jefferson supported an agrarian society with small farmers as the economic backbone, fearing industrialization and wealth inequality. In contrast, Hamilton favored industrialization and modernization, supporting tariffs to protect American manufacturers.

How did Jefferson and Hamilton interpret the Constitution differently?

Jefferson believed in a strict interpretation, opposing the National Bank as unconstitutional, fearing a loose interpretation would centralize power. Hamilton believed in a loose interpretation, using the Necessary and Proper Clause to justify the National Bank, asserting flexibility was essential for governance.

Why did Hamilton support the National Bank, and why did Jefferson oppose it?

Hamilton supported it to stabilize the economy, create national currency, encourage investment, and strengthen national credit by assuming state debts. Jefferson opposed it, viewing it as benefiting wealthy elites and fearing economic centralization would harm farmers.

How did regional differences influence party loyalties?

Federalists, mainly in the North, consisted of urban elites with an industrial vision and supported tariffs; they benefitted from federal policies. Democratic-Republicans, primarily in the South, were farmers from rural communities who opposed tariffs and focused on agriculture and states’ rights.

What long-term impact did Jefferson and Hamilton’s rivalry have?

It created the two-party system of Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans, shaped debates over government power, economic policy, and regional priorities, and foreshadowed deeper North-South conflicts over issues like slavery and state sovereignty.