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Hamilton Vs Thomas Jefferson Essay

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Jefferson and Madison were two of the Founding Fathers of America. Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, and James Madison wrote many important parts of the Constitution; these two people helped contribute to what America is today. The Constitution established America’s government, laws, and guaranteed citizens basic rights. One of the most debated issues over the Constitution is how strictly or loosely the Constitution should be `interpreted. Although Thomas Jefferson and James Madison were strict constructionists, this characterization changed during their presidencies, because the circumstances necessitated a shift. Jefferson and Hamilton feuded over whether the Bank was constitutional or not. Jefferson believed since the bank was not written or enumerated, in the Constitution it was forbidden. Hamilton argued that the bank was constitutional because the Constitution’s implied powers did not forbid the creation of the bank therefore it was permitted. Hamilton created the “Elastic Clause” of Congress that stated Congress has the power to do whatever is necessary and proper to carry out its appointed duties, consequently leading to the …show more content…

The Alien Act contradicted America’s welcoming nature, making it more difficult to become an American citizen. The Sedition Act violated freedom of speech and freedom of press which is guaranteed in the Constitution by the Bill of Rights. Jefferson and Madison, strict constructionists, took initiative to advocate for state’s rights by responding with the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions. The resolutions stated that the acts, which encroached upon state’s rights, gave more power to the federal government than to the states. Jefferson and Madison introduced nullification; this said the states had full consent to nullify laws made by the

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