Like its current citizens, the United States was born in debt-a debt so deep that it threatened to destroy the young nation. Thomas Jefferson considered the national debt a monstrous fraud on posterity, while Alexander Hamilton believed debt would help America prosper. Both, as it turns out, were right. One Nation Under Debt explores the untold history of America's first national debt, which arose from the immense sums needed to conduct the American Revolution. Noted economic historian Robert Wright, Ph.D. tells in riveting narrative how a subjugated but enlightened people cast off a great tyrant-“but their liberty, won with promises as well as with the blood of patriots, came at a high price.” He brings to life the key events that shaped the U.S. financial system and explains how the actions of our forefathers laid the groundwork for the debt we still carry today. As an economically tenuous nation by Revolution's end, America's people struggled to get on their feet. Wright outlines how the formation of a new government originally reduced the nation's debt-but, as debt was critical to this government's survival, it resurfaced, to be beaten back once more. Wright then reveals how political leaders began accumulating massive new debts to ensure their popularity, setting the financial stage for decades to come. Wright traces critical evolutionary developments-from Alexander Hamilton's creation of the nation's first modern capital market, to the use of national bonds to further financial goals, to the drafting of state constitutions that created non-predatory governments. He shows how, by the end of Andrew Jackson's administration, America's financial system was contributing to national growth while at the same time new national and state debts were amassing, sealing the fate for future generations.

One of America's foremost historians brilliantly brings to life the fierce struggle - both public and, ultimately, bitterly personal - between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton - two rivals whose opposing visions of what the United States should be continue to shape our country to this day.

This documentary study of Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton focuses on their differing views of society and government in the formative years of the new American nation. Interweaving more than 40 documents into 7 chronological chapters, the text follows the lives and careers of the two men from their youth, through the Revolutionary War, to the death of Hamilton in 1804. In each chapter, generous excerpts from their public papers and private letters reveal the two men’s often divergent views on government and the Constitution, economic and foreign policy, and the military, and illustrate the roles they played in the emergence of political parties. Reading Jefferson’s First Inaugural Address, the Report on Public Credit, the Kentucky Resolutions, and a host of other documents, students can explore firsthand the two men’s philosophies and the impact these had on the emerging nation. Also included are 10 illustrations, a Jefferson/Hamilton chronology, a bibliography, and an index.

This documentary study of Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton focuses on their differing views of society and government in the formative years of the new American nation. Interweaving more than 40 documents into 7 chronological chapters, the text follows the lives and careers of the two men from their youth, through the Revolutionary War, to the death of Hamilton in 1804. In each chapter, generous excerpts from their public papers and private letters reveal the two men’s often divergent views on government and the Constitution, economic and foreign policy, and the military, and illustrate the roles they played in the emergence of political parties. Reading Jefferson’s First Inaugural Address, the Report on Public Credit, the Kentucky Resolutions, and a host of other documents, students can explore first-hand the two men’s philosophies and the impact these had on the emerging nation.

In this nonfiction text, Hamilton Vs. Jefferson, readers will study the differences between two very important but distinct founding fathers: Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. Through the use of dynamic primary sources like maps and letters, middle school students will be engaged as they read about history and build their literacy skills. Supporting current social studies standards, this full-color text includes intriguing images, interesting sidebars, a glossary, and other important text features to support learning and strengthen key comprehension skills. Challenging activities require students to use text evidence to connect back to what they've read.

Briefly surveys more than two centures of American political history to describe how the country has been broken spiritually, politically and financially and advocates a return to core values to restore America's economic and spiritual health.

Delve into American Political History with "Jefferson and Hamilton: The Struggle for Democracy" Step back in time to witness one of the most pivotal moments in American political history with Claude G. Bowers' masterful work, "Jefferson and Hamilton: The Struggle for Democracy in America." Through meticulous research and engaging narrative, Bowers brings to life the epic clash between two of the nation's founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, as they vied for the soul of the young republic. Unravel the Complexities of Early American Politics In "Jefferson and Hamilton," Bowers skillfully navigates the turbulent waters of late 18th-century America, offering readers a front-row seat to the ideological battle that shaped the nation's future. From Jefferson's vision of agrarian democracy to Hamilton's advocacy for a strong central government and industrial economy, Bowers illuminates the contrasting visions and strategies of these influential figures. As you follow Jefferson and Hamilton's intertwined journeys through politics, policy, and personal ambition, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped the early American experiment in democracy. Bowers' vivid prose and keen insights shed light on the complexities of power, ideology, and human nature, painting a rich portrait of a nation in flux. Why "Jefferson and Hamilton" Is Essential Reading: In-Depth Analysis: Gain valuable insights into the personalities, principles, and policies of Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, two towering figures in American history. Relevant to Today's Issues: Explore themes of federalism, populism, and partisan politics that resonate with contemporary debates, offering valuable context for understanding the challenges facing modern democracy. Engaging Narrative: Bowers' compelling storytelling and attention to detail make "Jefferson and Hamilton" a captivating read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.Embark on a journey through the corridors of power and the battlefields of ideas with "Jefferson and Hamilton: The Struggle for Democracy in America." Discover how the competing visions of these founding fathers continue to shape the American political landscape to this day.