The National Bank and tariffs were central components of the Federalist Party's economic policies in the early years of the United States. The Federalists, led by figures such as Alexander Hamilton, advocated for a strong central government and a robust financial system.
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National Bank: The First Bank of the United States, established in 1791, was a key element of Hamilton's financial plan. Federalists believed that a national bank would stabilize and improve the nation's credit, provide a uniform currency, and facilitate governmental financial operations.
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Tariffs: Federalists also supported protective tariffs to encourage American industry and generate revenue for the federal government. Tariffs would protect domestic manufacturers from foreign competition, which was particularly important for the burgeoning economy of the United States.
Overall, both the National Bank and tariffs were associated with the Federalist vision for a strong central government and a mixed economy that combined agricultural and industrial interests. In contrast, opposition to these measures often came from the Democratic-Republicans, who favored agrarian interests and feared the concentration of power in a national government and financial institutions.