Alexander Hamilton on Finance, Credit, and Debt

This is undoubtedly a treasure trove for financial and public policy geeks, and the book will also help lay readers go beyond the hit musical in understanding Hamilton's lasting significance.--Publishers Weekly Hamilton's writings always impress for their clarity of argument and, especially, for their prescient vision of the future of the American economy. Thanks to Richard Sylla and David J. Cowen for reminding us of that.--Ben Bernanke, former chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System Alexander Hamilton was the architect of the American financial system that endures to this day, making his founding-era writings on topics such as the national debt, trade, foreign investment, and central banking both resonant and relevant to contemporary readers. Sylla and Cowen provide helpful historical context, but they largely let Hamilton's genius speak for itself. From short essays that resemble the modern op-ed to legal documents to his reports to Congress as Treasury Secretary, the book offers a compelling window into Hamilton's visionary thinking on economic matters.--Robert E. Rubin, co-chair emeritus, Council on Foreign Relations, and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Seen the musical? Now read Hamilton's original letters setting out his vision for the financial revolution that created today's American economy--all excellently and helpfully edited by Richard Sylla and David J. Cowen.--Lord Mervyn King, former Governor of the Bank of England Sylla and Cowen make clear to readers that Hamilton had a solid historical foundation and a farsighted vision for his policy prescriptions. Without their expert guidance, this structure would often be missed even if one were to read through a larger set of writings. I could not imagine a better team to write this book.--Matthew Jaremski, Colgate University A fascinating examination of Hamiltonian economics.--Washington Times