Alexander Hamilton
and the Beginnings of American Oligarchy
A Seminar
Closet Monarchist. Modern Nationalist. Immigrant Patriot. Fiscal Wizard. Master Government Technician.
Our primary interest with this seminar is to explore the role of Alexander Hamilton (1755 – 1804) in the American Founding. Controversial from the beginning, Hamilton continues to loom large in the American national imaginary. Unabashed elitist from a humble outsider background, Hamilton pursued grand goals for himself and for the nascent Union he helped create. In this seminar we will try to understand Hamilton’s audacious vision of a modern political economy through a close reading of his three famous state papers. We also explore his legacy and give voice to his most perspective
critics from the Founding through the present day. Key concepts and topics include public debt, banking, manufacturing, tariffs, national greatness, democracy, oligarchy, and American class politics.
Readings will be made available to the participating students at the Abigail Adams Institute, located near Adams House, at 14 Arrow Street. Reach out with any questions to director@aaicambridge.org.