Summary

In Chapter 18: Of Avarice and Enterprise, Hamilton, despite controversial ideas, remains popular among many people because he is representative of the spirit of merit in America. He is a self-made man who believes government should provide the conditions and then stand back for a good economy, and to allow people to advance their lives and livelihoods. Hamilton continues to create controversy by suggesting a national bank. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson dislike any business which allows men to make money by shuffling papers rather than actually producing something, but Adams believes banks are necessary and should be controlled by the state. Hamilton’s support of a national bank has to do with wanting a standard currency for all 13 states, as well as instilling faith in the public. Hamilton believes the bank should be private, but overseen by the state. In such a bank...