| This thesis examines the actions of Alexander Hamilton during the American presidential election of 1800. Specifically it attempts to show why Hamilton proceeded the way he did, what exactly his plan was, and what the outcome of his actions was. The thesis argues that Alexander Hamilton was not trying to become president or king, he simply wanted to make sure that his vision for America was followed, because he believed this vision was the one that gave the new nation its best chance for survival. In an effort to show why Hamilton believed his actions would be successful in 1800, this work begins with an examination of Hamilton's role as party creator in the early 1790s. It then moves throughout the 1790s with an emphasis on Hamilton and his role in America's political life. The main sources for this thesis were letters to and from Alexander Hamilton, as well as letters exchanged between other prominent Federalist Party members throughout the 1790s and 1800. By focusing on these letters, the reader will gain an insight into Alexander Hamilton and his desires in 1800, an insight that is sorely lacking in the literature that deals with this election. |
