Alexander Hamilton: Early Influences

In this video segment from American Experience, learn about how the events of Hamilton's youth in the West Indies influenced the direction of his life.

A Case for the Separation of Powers

This video segment adapted from American Experience introduces how John Adams called for the separation of powers in the Massachusetts Constitution into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Debating Slavery

In this video segment adapted from Africans in America, learn how the issue of slavery shaped the debate at the U.S. Constitutional Convention.

Declaring Freedom...But For Whom?

In this video segment adapted from Africans in America, consider the American view of freedom that was defined by Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence.

Hamilton's Bank

In this lesson inspired by the PBS program Rediscovering Alexander Hamilton students explore the political and philosophical differences between Alexander Hamilton's Federalists and Thomas Jefferson's Republicans.

Having a Strong National Government

In this video from The Supreme Court, partisan politics influences the development of the United States as a young republic.

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Marshall's View of Federalism

This video from The Supreme Court shows the evolution of John Marshall’s ideas on federalism.

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McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

In this video, Supreme Court Justice John Marshal, in the case of McCulloch V. Maryland, ruled in favor of national sovereignty over states’ rights.

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The Powers of Government

In this lesson designed to enhance literacy skills, students learn how power is divided and shared among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the U.S. government.

The Quest for Success: The Alexander Hamilton Story

In this lesson students watch video segments from Rediscovering Alexander Hamilton and learn about how Alexander Hamilton overcame a difficult childhood to become a successful lawyer, a military hero and an advisor to George Washington.

Slavery and the U.S. Constitution

In this lesson designed to enhance literacy skills, students explore how delegates to the U.S. Constitutional Convention in 1787 addressed slavery in the Constitution as they debated the idea of fair representation in the government.

Whiskey and War: An Exploration of the Conflicts Between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson

Using video segments from Rediscovering Alexander Hamilton, this activity allows students to explore the causes and effects of the Whiskey Rebellion, as both an important test for the federal government and for Secretary of Treasury Alexander Hamilton.

Who Was Alexander Hamilton?

In this lesson designed to enhance literacy skills, students explore the key role that Alexander Hamilton played in shaping the U.S. government and how his early experiences helped him achieve this success.