The Similarities Between Hamilton and Jefferson During Their Rivalry

When you look back at American history, it’s hard to miss the big clash between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. These two guys were pretty important in the early days of the U.S., and boy, did they have different ideas! They argued a lot, which really split people's opinions back then. But here’s the thing—despite all their differences, they actually had some surprising stuff in common. In this piece, we’ll dig into those similarities between Hamilton and Jefferson during their famous rivalry. Who knows? You might find it pretty interesting how complicated their relationship was and what that meant for America's story.

Their Backgrounds and Ideas

To get why Hamilton and Jefferson had some things in common, we gotta look at where they came from and what they believed in. So, Hamilton was born in the West Indies—kind of far from where most founding fathers came from—and he was a Federalist. He really thought a strong central government was the way to go, along with having a solid financial system. He wasn’t shy about bending the rules when interpreting the Constitution if it helped him build something like a national bank.

Now, take Jefferson—this guy was a Virginia planter who pushed for states’ rights as a Democratic-Republican. His whole deal was about keeping power out of one place and focusing on farming communities that cherished personal freedom.

Despite these huge differences, they had a few things they agreed on during their face-offs. For starters, both wanted America to be free and independent. They even fought in the American Revolution! Plus, they were big on building a government that could handle both outside threats and inside squabbles.

Economic Policies They Both Liked

You wouldn’t think it at first glance, but Hamilton and Jefferson actually agreed on protective tariffs. Sure, their reasons weren’t exactly the same—Hamilton wanted to push industrial growth while Jefferson aimed to protect farmers—but they both got that America needed to shield its industries from outside competition.

This shared stance showed how much both cared about America's economy growing strong at home.

They also saw eye to eye on needing a stable financial system. Even though they fought over federal power limits, each realized that having good finances was crucial for America’s future. While Hamilton crafted his financial plan with state debts in mind along with setting up a national bank for good credit ratings, Jefferson worked towards cutting down national debt when he took office.

What They Thought About Foreign Policy

This part's kinda interesting: Both guys leaned towards keeping America neutral internationally. When Europe was in turmoil like during France's revolution or Napoleon’s antics later on—they weren’t keen on getting too involved abroad.

Hamilton kicked off neutrality talks as Treasury Secretary by urging caution against siding with either France or Britain then; similarly further down line Jeff did similar actions through embargoes aiming staying clear outta Napoleonic messes!

Their take differed overall though since Ham loved flexing military muscles globally whereas Jeff valued liberty over armament risking republic essence instead… still not wanting unnecessary trouble overseas emphasized protecting US interests first foremost nonetheless yeah?

Wrapping It All Up

Okay so bottom line here folks—even though Alexander Hamilton & Thomas Jefferson were serious rivals packing different ideas mostly—they surprisingly found common ground sometimes amidst sparring sessions huh?

Together shared love ensured nation stayed independent alongside recognizing need running firm gov’t structure plus tackling economic matters around trade stabilizing finances altho approached uniquely each time sure enough eh?

Beyond fiscal realm neutrality quest reminded us despite variances key element resonated among them kinda fascinating considering impact left shaping initial years USA no less wow right?! By peeking into their similarities hidden beneath surface tension better appreciate those very forces driving early American politics further etching legacy standing today always enlightening curious minds willing explore deeper delve absolutely amazing isn’t?

References

1. Chernow, R. (2004). Alexander Hamilton. Penguin Books.
2. Ellis, J.J. (1997). American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson. Vintage Books.
3. Miller Center of Public Affairs (n.d.). Life Before Presidency - Thomas Jefferson.
4. The National Archives (n.d.). Founders Online: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington...
5. Bordewich F.M.(2016),The First Congress - How James Madison etc saved young Republic Oxford University Press