Language English | Originally published 1775 | |
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Followed by Remarks on the Quebec Bill Similar Works by Alexander Hamilton, Other books | ||
The Farmer Refuted, published in February, 1775, was Alexander Hamilton's second published work, a follow-up to his 1774 A Full Vindication of the Measures of Congress.
Contents
Summary of publication
In The Farmer Refuted, Alexander Hamilton addresses directly the main person whom he was writing in opposition to with his first work, Bishop Samuel Seabury. Seabury wrote under the name "A. W. Farmer" (a pen name and acronym for 'a Westchester farmer'). Calling the writing a less than imposed "labyrinth of subtilty," Hamilton once again refutes Seabury's claim that the Congress in Philadelphia deserved to be condemned for conduct.
He also critiques the writings of Seabury stating that the Colonies can exist in their advocacy against Parliament's acts while remaining loyal to the King of Great Britain, stating that it is only by "occasion" that Parliament's acts give authority to the King, Hamilton asserts his belief that "He is king of America by virtue of a compact between us and the kings of Great Britain."
In Popular Culture
"The Farmer Refuted" is addressed in the 2015 hit Broadway musical Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda in the song "Farmer Refuted," which is about Alexander's arguments with Seabury.