What was one of the main beliefs of Alexander Hamilton regarding the U.S. economy?

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Prepare for the UCF AMH2010 U.S. History Exam 2. Master key historic concepts with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Get exam-ready!

One of the main beliefs of Alexander Hamilton regarding the U.S. economy was that a strong economy is essential for national strength. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton played a pivotal role in shaping the economic framework of the United States. He argued that a robust federal government was crucial for creating a stable economic environment, which would in turn promote national unity and strength.

Hamilton believed that the federal government should assume state debts from the Revolutionary War to establish a credible national credit system. This would enable the U.S. to borrow money at lower interest rates, fostering economic growth and stability. Additionally, he advocated for the establishment of a national bank to manage debts and provide a uniform currency, demonstrating his view that a strong centrally coordinated economy was vital for the prosperity and security of the nation.

Other options reflect misconceptions about Hamilton’s beliefs. For instance, handling state debts independently contrasts with Hamilton's vision of unifying financial liabilities to promote national cohesion. Also, regarding limited government, Hamilton actually supported a strong federal government as necessary for economic development, opposing the idea that a limited government would be preferable for economic growth. Lastly, while some degree of international trade and foreign relations was significant to Hamilton, he did not frame foreign aid as a primary necessity for domestic