A brilliant Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1813, Albert Gallatin framed the American government's plan to foster economic growth by reducing the public debt, expanding and improving national territory, and encouraging internal manufacture. Later, as a diplomat, Gallatin dominated the American commission that negotiated the Treaty of Ghent. Even in his old age, Gallatin remained involved with national affairs, arguing powerfully against ruthless expansionism during the Mexican War: "Truth never was nor can be propagated by fire and sword, or by other than purely moral means."

With this impressive record, it is surprising that many students of history think of Gallatin only as a vague name somehow connected with early American economics. Perhaps it was his lack of flamboyance and passion—unless it be a passion for fairness—that he has relegated this first-rate man to such unjust obscurity. For as Professor Ferguson demonstrates, here was one of the most balanced critical minds in the service of the young republic—a patriot devoted to bringing the enunciation and the practice of American ideals into closer harmony.

By making available for the first time a one-volume collection of Gallatin's writings, drawn not only on material printed in Henry Adams' three-volume edition but also on unfamiliar speeches and manuscripts, the editor enables the modern reader to appreciate more fully a man who voluntarily abandoned a life of wealth and social position in his native Switzerland to become one of America's most constructive public servants.