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Shane Smith
History 108
Professor Perry
Apr. 15 2015
American Source Analysis
In a time when America was within its first few decades, the ideals of men attempting to influence the country in the best way they see fit were a common occurrence. However, two men, Andrew Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson, highly influenced future generations more so than most. The two constitute a debate with the use of their documents, which involves almost completely opposite viewpoints; both highlighting their opinions of what newly american citizen’s identities should be. The major arguments between the two focused on America’s economy, foreign policy, and government. For example, Jefferson believed in a strong agricultural economy whereas Hamilton favored one based upon manufacturing. Similarly, the two had disposition towards each other’s ideals of state and federal governments, along with ideals of foreign policies, specifically involving Great Britain. Their political views influenced
America and its people, and in the years to come a combination of their ideals would be developed in the government, leading to an identity of a hardworking, yet professional and global people.
Hamilton believed in the potential of the United States of America. He believed greatness can ensue, however in his eyes it must follow the development of a strong economy. In the early eighteenth century, agriculture still remained strong in the nation’s economy. In fact, it is what it was mainly based upon. Hamilton believed an economy favoring trade and manufacturing

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would be the best option for America. Through the federal government, he pursued attempts focused on expanding the economy, believing it to lead to an increase in the nation’s wealth. For example, in 1790, Hamilton had an idea about paying off the national debt as quickly as