Tariffs: The First Economic Battle Under the Constitution
The very first economic fight under the Constitution wasn’t over a national bank. It wasn’t over building roads or canals. It was about tariffs. This was, as James Madison called it, the subject of “the greatest magnitude” – demanding, he insisted,...
Continental Association: The Economic Shutdown that Birthed the Union
“We are not such asses as to let them ride us as they please.” That was the fiery attitude of a 19-year-old Alexander Hamilton in 1774 – and it perfectly explained the principle behind the economic shutdown the colonies were implementing in response...
Forgotten Foundation: Declaration and Resolves of the First Continental Congress
“To these grievous acts and measures Americans cannot submit.” On October 14, 1774, the First Continental Congress drew its line in the sand. They met that fall to confront the Coercive Acts – Parliament’s brutal retaliation for the Boston Tea Party. They had a...