Evaluate+Hamilton's+economic+plan+for+national+unity+in+light+of+developments+through+1833.++JZ

Thesis: Alexander Hamilton's grand plan to systemize the economy through the federal government was considered highly controversial at its time and had many critics. Even today, analysts argue over whether it was beneficial or not. One could argue that there were many drawbacks to the Hamiltonian economic system. The worsening of sectionalism and the resulting South Carolina Exposition and nullification crisis can be attributed to tariffs, along with the Whiskey Rebellion, the Kentucky and Virginia resolutions, and excise taxes. There were, however, many benefits to assuming the states' debts. The US began to accumulate a good credit rating and therefore the economy began to stabilize. As a result, the US was able to double its size with the purchase of Louisiana. Future infrastructure was made possible which supported Henry Clay's American System. Overall, the benefits far outweighed some aspects that could be considered negative.

Outline: I. Hamiltonian Economics A. Federal Government assumed debt of states B. National Bank system

II. Tariff and Hamiltonian Economics Drawbacks A. Promoted sectionalism 1. Protected the North at expense of South 2. South had to pay more to export their goods and import manufactured materials B. Nullification Crisis 1. South Carolina Exposition C. Whiskey Rebellion 1. Tax on whiskey D. Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions

III. Benefits A. Credit Rating 1. Economy began to stabilize 2. US able to purchase Louisiana B. Unified states 1. Tied them all together with a vested interest in country C. Future infrastructure would be paid for 1. American System would be possible

IV. Conclusion A. Hamilton's plan was overall beneficial