The American System: A Three-Part Economic Plan for American Development

:moneybag:The American system was designed by Kentucky congressman Henry Clay to protect American industry by placing tariffs on imported goods.

:office:The plan also sought to establish a national bank, known as the Second Bank of the United States, to spur economic growth.

:car:One of the goals of the American system was to improve transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and canals.

:chart_with_upwards_trend:Supporters believed that the plan would foster economic stability and growth by giving farmers and manufacturers better access to markets.

:balance_scale:The American system faced opposition from states' rights advocates who saw it as an unconstitutional exercise of federal power.

What was the purpose of the American system?

—The American system aimed to protect American industry, spur economic growth, and improve transportation infrastructure.

Who designed the American system?

—The American system was designed by Kentucky congressman Henry Clay.

What were the three main components of the American system?

—The three main components were protective tariffs, the establishment of a national bank, and investment in infrastructure.

What was the role of the Second Bank of the United States in the American system?

—The Second Bank of the United States was intended to stimulate economic growth and help manage the country's debts.

Why did the American system face opposition?

—The American system faced opposition from states' rights advocates who believed it exceeded the federal government's constitutional powers.

00:08The American system, developed in the 1800s, was a three-part economic plan for American development.

00:26The plan included protective tariffs on imported goods to protect American industry.

00:37It also sought to establish the Second Bank of the United States to spur economic growth.

00:43The American system called for federal funds to improve the country's transportation system.

01:13Supporters believed the plan would foster economic stability and growth.

01:54Opponents, particularly states' rights advocates, saw it as an unconstitutional exercise of federal power.