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Admiration Quote by Alexander Hamilton

“Passive commerce . . . should thus . . . [compel us] to content ourselves with the first price of our commodities, and to see the profits of our trade snatched from us, to enrich our enemies and persecutors. That unequalled spirit of enterprise . . . an inexhaustible mine of national wealth, would…” quote by Alexander Hamilton
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“Passive commerce . . . should thus . . . [compel us] to content ourselves with the first price of our commodities, and to see the profits of our trade snatched from us, to enrich our enemies and persecutors. That unequalled spirit of enterprise . . . an inexhaustible mine of national wealth, would be stifled and lost; and poverty and disgrace would overspread a country, which, with wisdom, might make herself the admiration and envy of the world.”

Alexander Hamilton

About This Quote

Source The: Report on Manufactures, 1791

Neglecting fair trade harms national wealth and empowers rivals, leading to poverty and disgrace.

In simple terms: Unfair trade harms nation and benefits enemies.

Key Takeaway

Promote equitable commerce for prosperity.

Themes

economics nationalism trade justice

Mood

serious analytical

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • industrial policy
  • foreign trade
  • economic development
  • social welfare

Key Concepts

mercantilism public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies ensure fair trade?
  • How balance profit with public good?
A Different Perspective

Political opposition may resist reforms.

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