Early American Republic: Hamilton vs. Jefferson

Vocabulary terms and core concepts covering the ideological and economic debates between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson in the 1790s.

Spirit and Intent of the Second Amendment

Protection against private violence as well as unlawful state violence.

Hamilton's Case for a National Debt

The proposition that if wealthy Americans and the moneyed classes lend the government money, they will have a vested interest in the government's survival.

Force of 13,000 Troops

The military force gathered when George Washington donned his uniform and rode out at Alexander Hamilton's urging.

Jefferson's Conception of Liberty

The belief that liberty is sustained when citizens live outside and on the land with a widespread property-owning middle class, rather than crowded into cities marked by great inequality of wealth.

Swindling Futurity

Thomas Jefferson's description of a national debt or funding system that spends money in the present to be paid off by posterity and future generations.

Jefferson's View on Banking Establishments

The conviction that banking systems are more dangerous than standing armies and corrupt citizen morals by fostering a speculative gambling spirit in the economy.

Federalist Base in New England

The regional stronghold of the Federalist party, characterized by early industrialization, capitalism, and commercial enterprises.

Democratic-Republicans

The political faction that made a conscious effort to appeal to common people and whiskey rebels.

Jefferson's Position on the French Revolution

The view that the United States had an obligation to ally with France because France had supported the American Revolution.

History 112 (Foundations of Democracy)

A 35-student, discussion- and debate-oriented course cross-listed with political science covering topics such as the French Revolution.