Question

what does hamilton want to do with debt?
hint: think money borrowed during the revolution
answer
why does congress have to approve of hamilton’s plan?
hint: think about checks and balances
answer
burr: howre you gonna get your debt plan through?
hamilton: i guess im gonna finally have to listen to you
burr: ready?
hamilton: talk less. smile more.
burr: ha
hamilton: do whatever it takes to get my plan on the congress floor
burr: now, madison and jefferson are merciless
hamilton: well, hate the sin, love the sinner
james madison: hamilton!
hamilton: im sorry burr, ive gotta go
burr: but—
hamilton: decisions are happening over dinner

Explanation:

First Question: What does Hamilton want to do with debt?

Hamilton wanted to assume the states’ debts from the Revolutionary War. The hint about money borrowed during the Revolution points to his plan for the federal government to take on state debts, which would strengthen the nation’s credit and central government.

Congress (the legislative branch) holds the power of the purse and must approve financial plans (like debt assumption or new taxes to fund it) to ensure checks and balances. The hint about checks and balances refers to the separation of powers: Congress controls legislation and spending, so Hamilton’s plan needed their approval to become law.

Answer:

Hamilton wanted the federal government to assume (take on) the debts that states and the Confederation Congress had incurred during the American Revolutionary War.

Second Question: Why does Congress have to approve of Hamilton’s plan?