Preamble In the aftermath of the American Revolution, the United States faced the daunting task of establishing itself as a sovereign nation, not only politically but also economically. The young republic was heavily dependent on British manufactured goods and financial systems, a legacy of its colonial past that threatened its autonomy. Against this backdrop, a distinct economic philosophy emerged in the 19th century, known as the American School of Political Economy. Championed by figures like Alexander Hamilton, Henry Clay, and Friedrich List, this school advocated for economic nationalism, emphasizing industrialization, protective tariffs, and public investment to achieve self-sufficiency. Rejecting the British doctrine of free trade, which was seen as a tool of economic imperialism, the American School sought to build a balanced economy capable of supporting a strong, independent nation. This write-up explores the principles, key thinkers, opposition, quantifiable achievemen...