Why did Alexander Hamilton support government subsidies for roads and canals during the early development of the United States?

• A. He believed that improved infrastructure would promote economic growth and facilitate commerce.
• B. He sought to increase tariffs on imported goods by making transportation more expensive.
• C. He aimed to discourage westward expansion and keep the population concentrated in coastal cities.
• D. He wanted to reduce government spending and limit federal involvement in the economy.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the historical context: During the early development of the United States, infrastructure like roads and canals was crucial for connecting different regions and enabling trade.
2. Recall Alexander Hamilton's economic philosophy: He was a proponent of a strong federal government that actively supported economic development and industrial growth.
3. Analyze the role of government subsidies: Subsidies for infrastructure projects reduce the cost of building and maintaining roads and canals, which in turn lowers transportation costs for goods and people.
4. Connect improved infrastructure to economic outcomes: Better transportation networks facilitate commerce by making it easier and cheaper to move goods, which promotes economic growth and market expansion.
5. Conclude why Hamilton supported subsidies: He believed that government investment in infrastructure was essential to stimulate economic development and integrate the national economy.