In fifth period today Mr. Stewart discussed the visions of both Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. He then asked us which of these two outcomes was better represented in modern America. Here are the arguments:
Hamilton's ideas of promoting industry and commercial interest are clearly evident in our society. Our nation is build upon manufacturing and a great deal of the United States global influence is due to the creation of dominant industries (i.e. cars, steel, and technology). Additionally, the United States has gradually become a global military power, involved (whether indirectly or directly) in nearly every international conflict. This notion of a nation that can assert its beliefs around the world is a hallmark of Hamilton's view of a burgeoning America. It is also worth mentioning that although the states still maintain a certain level of autonomy, the central government has become extremely powerful in regards to legislation and executive files.
In contrast, Jefferson's visions of an agrarian nation still hold true. This great republic will forever be at the mercy of the production of food by an very powerful, yet often forgotten farming class (think Great Depression). A great example for this is California. The central valley is frequently referred to as the bread basket of the state and grows the majority of the food consumed by the population. Another of Jefferson's beliefs was the fact that everyone, if properly educated, could govern. This has never been more true as the branches of the governments continue to diversify and include many representatives of countless causes.
Fortunately, the United States has borrowed from both philosophies to create a nation that fulfills (or attempts) the creed of the authors of the Constitution.
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