Federalist 70, EXPLAINED [AP Gov Required Documents]

Summary

In this video, the presenter explains Alexander Hamilton's *Federalist 70*, which argues for a single, strong executive to ensure effective governance. Hamilton dismisses the Anti-Federalist idea of multiple executives, asserting that unity in leadership provides energy, decisiveness, and clear responsibility. A single executive is better suited to act swiftly in times of crisis and ensures accountability, whereas multiple executives can lead to division and inefficiency. Ultimately, Hamilton makes the case that a unified executive is essential for preserving the stability and effectiveness of a republic.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hamilton argues for a single executive (president) in *Federalist 70*, countering the Anti-Federalists’ proposal for multiple executives.
• 😀 The Anti-Federalists feared a single executive would lead to tyranny, but Hamilton defends a strong, unified president as essential for effective government.
• 😀 Hamilton defines 'energy in the executive' as the ability to act quickly, decisively, and with authority, which is essential for good governance.
• 😀 A plural executive would diminish energy, as decision-making would be slow and divided among multiple people, which could hinder effective action.
• 😀 Hamilton argues that the more executives there are, the less effective the office becomes, leading to inefficiency and weakened governance.
• 😀 Unity in the executive branch is crucial for swift action, especially in emergencies where divided authority would hinder responses.
• 😀 A single executive ensures responsibility because it's clear who is accountable for the actions of the executive branch.
• 😀 In a multi-person executive system, it would be difficult to assign blame for mismanagement, as responsibility would be obscured.
• 😀 A unified executive prevents internal division, which could otherwise lead to factions and undermine the government's ability to act.
• 😀 Hamilton emphasizes that a singular president allows for clearer accountability, ensuring that the public knows who to hold responsible if the government fails.

Q & A

What is the central argument of Federalist 70 by Alexander Hamilton?

Federalist 70 argues that a strong, energetic executive is essential for the success of the new government. Hamilton advocates for a single executive, such as a president, to ensure quick and decisive action, unity, and clear responsibility.

Why were the Anti-Federalists opposed to a single executive?

The Anti-Federalists feared that a single executive would resemble a monarchy and lead to the concentration of power in the hands of one person, which could result in tyranny. They proposed multiple executives to limit the power of any one individual.

What does Hamilton mean by 'energy' in the executive?

By 'energy,' Hamilton refers to the executive's ability to act quickly, decisively, and effectively. He believes that a single executive can make swift decisions without the delays caused by debate and compromise, which are inherent in a multi-person executive.

What are the two main benefits Hamilton associates with a single executive?

The two main benefits Hamilton associates with a single executive are unity and responsibility. A single executive provides unity in decision-making, while clear responsibility allows citizens to hold the right person accountable for any failures or misdeeds.

How does Hamilton argue that multiple executives weaken the government?

Hamilton argues that multiple executives lead to division, which diminishes the executive's ability to act decisively and efficiently. In emergencies, this lack of unity can frustrate important government measures and even cause irreconcilable factions to form.

What is the problem Hamilton highlights with a multi-executive system during emergencies?

Hamilton points out that a multi-executive system could impede the government's ability to respond effectively in critical situations. Division among executives could delay decisions and potentially divide the public into conflicting factions, preventing swift and unified action.

How does Hamilton compare the executive branch to the legislative branch?

Hamilton contrasts the executive and legislative branches by noting that the legislative branch is slow and deliberative, as it is composed of many representatives. In contrast, the executive branch needs speed, decisiveness, and vigor, which are best provided by a single leader.

What is Hamilton's stance on accountability in the executive branch?

Hamilton argues that a single executive ensures clear accountability. If something goes wrong, the public can easily determine who is responsible. In a multi-executive system, it would be difficult to identify the individual at fault, making it harder to hold anyone accountable.

What are the potential drawbacks of a multi-executive system according to Hamilton?

The main drawbacks of a multi-executive system, according to Hamilton, are lack of decisiveness and unity. Multiple executives would likely lead to internal divisions, delay in decision-making, and unclear accountability, weakening the effectiveness of the government.

How does Hamilton justify the risks associated with a single executive?

While acknowledging the potential dangers of concentrated power, Hamilton argues that the single executive is necessary for effective governance. The president, though at risk of becoming a tyrant, is the best option for executing the government's duties with energy and decisiveness, and can be removed if corrupt at the next election.