The Federalist Papers · Chapter
XXXVI: The Same Subject Continued (Concerning the General Power of Taxation) explained
Hamilton continues his defense of the federal government's power of internal taxation, arguing that the national legislature can acquire sufficient knowledge of local circumstances through its representatives, that the power will encourage
What happens
Hamilton continues his defense of the federal government's power of internal taxation, arguing that the national legislature can acquire sufficient knowledge of local circumstances through its representatives, that the power will encourage state compliance with requisitions, and that concerns about double taxation or oppressive poll taxes are unfounded. He emphasizes the necessity of this power for national emergencies and concludes by transitioning to the topic of the judiciary.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because Hamilton directly confronts the most emotionally charged accusatio…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Federalism and the Necessity of Union
Hamilton argues for the necessity of federal taxation power to ensure the Union's effectiveness and security.
- Economic Prosperity and Commerce
The chapter discusses the economic advantages of federal taxation, including the use of commercial imposts and the avoidance of double taxation.
- Human Nature and the Capacity for Self-Government
Hamilton appeals to the credit of human nature and the capacity of representatives to act wisely, while also acknowledging the need for government power in emergencies.
Characters to notice
- Publius
The authorial voice throughout the chapter, presenting the argument for federal taxation.
- Alexander Hamilton
The actual author of this Federalist Paper, writing under the pseudonym Publius.
Key passages
“The door ought to be equally open to all; and I trust, for the credit of human nature, that we shall see examples of such vigorous plants flourishing in the soil of federal as well as of state legislation”
Opportunity should be available to everyone, and I believe that talented individuals will succeed in both federal and state governments.
Hamilton expresses optimism about meritocracy in government.
“Happy it is when the interest which the government has in the preservation of its own power, coincides with a proper distribution of the public burdens, and tends to guard the least wealthy part of the community from oppression!”
It is fortunate when the government's self-interest aligns with fair taxation and protecting the poor from oppression.
Hamilton highlights the alignment of government self-interest with equitable tax policy.
“I acknowledge my aversion to every project that is calculated to disarm the government of a single weapon, which in any possible contingency might be usefully employed for the general defense and security.”
I oppose any plan that would deprive the government of any tool that could be needed for national defense and security.
Hamilton argues for retaining all possible governmental powers for emergencies.
