Compare the economic policies of the American System with those of Alexander Hamilton. What was similar? What was different? How do you think Hamilton would have rated presidents such as John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson?

The American System was a set of economic policies proposed by Henry Clay in the early 19th century, which aimed to promote economic growth and protect domestic industries. Alexander Hamilton, on the other hand, was the first Secretary of the Treasury and proposed his own economic policies to strengthen the federal government and promote economic development.

One similarity between the American System and Hamilton's economic policies is their focus on protectionism and the promotion of domestic industries. Both systems advocated for tariffs to protect American manufacturers from foreign competition and to encourage economic self-sufficiency.

However, there were also differences between the two. Hamilton's policies were more focused on centralizing power in the federal government and establishing a national bank to manage the country's finances, while the American System proposed internal improvements such as infrastructure development and a national transportation network.

In terms of how Hamilton would have rated presidents such as John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson, it is likely that he would have been more favorable towards Adams due to his support for internal improvements and protective tariffs. Jackson, on the other hand, was known for his opposition to the national bank and his support for states' rights, which would have likely put him at odds with Hamilton's economic vision.

Overall, Hamilton would have likely rated presidents who supported protectionist economic policies and federal government intervention in the economy more favorably, while those who opposed these measures would have received a less favorable rating from him.