From: Jonathan Heller
Date: 3/1/00
Time: 5:03:02 PM
Remote Name: 155.247.158.109
How did Jefferson’s and Hamilton’s views on human nature and beliefs about individual freedom differ and what was the significance of these differences for government policy in the 1790’s?
Hamilton and Jefferson had very different views. Hamilton was pro British and felt that too much political freedom would eventually lead to chaos, which would be even worse than what they had before (under the king’s rule). He thought the central government should be strengthened. This would allow for social stability, and would steer the poorer people away from oppression. It would also put them in a position in where they would be provided with education and help. The upper class would provide and support Hamilton. Hamilton felt that this would be possible if he convinced the wealthy that by giving him their money, they would eventually prosper and make more money. Hamilton felt that business development was essential for the country to break its reliance on foreign trade. Jefferson’s view was basically the opposite of Hamilton’s. Unlike Hamilton, Jefferson supported the French and wanted personal liberty. He was mainly concerned about wealthy people putting their wealth above their liberty. He felt that these people would end up corrupting the government. He also felt strongly about Economy. Unlike Hamilton, Jefferson wanted individual farmers to trade internationally rather than large business. These disagreements were not settled amicably. It created divisions in congress, slowed political processes, and made two friends