Title: The Failed Experiment: Was Hamilton Right?
Author: Mart Grams
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1-5434-8064-1
Pages: 548
Genre: Historical Nonfiction/Politics
Reviewed by: Matt Hurd
Pacific Book Review
Mart Grams’ The Failed Experiment posits that there is much more than meets the eye behind the function of the United States government, both today and across history. The same can be said about his book: there’s much more present than might meet the eye at first glance here. The title suggests the reader might be in for a discussion of solely Alexander Hamilton and his views on economics and government. What’s actually present here is an enormously wide-ranging historical chronicle and discussion of the United States government, its origins and inspirations, and the roadblocks and challenges its citizens have faced in the modern era.
Grams is a former teacher, and this lends a crucial clarity and organization to his writing that might otherwise be missing. His straightforward, clear approach makes delving into numerous periods of history as well as a large number of historical texts not only manageable, but interesting and engaging. Many chapters feature questions for examination before or after the content is presented, allowing the reader to engage at a higher level with the material presented.
Not everyone will agree with every argument that Grams puts forward; he never really expects that from his readers. Rather, agree or disagree, he’s asking for critical thinking to be applied to the context of the information he’s providing. His examination of the path of American government ranges from its deepest inspirations in Greek and Roman law and culture, through the creation and drafting of the Constitution, touches on the creation of the Bill of Rights and further Amendments, and addresses economic concerns in relation to government overreach.
Grams weaves together a massive trove of historical information, primary sources, and personal highly-educated opinions to present a thorough and thought-provoking political treatise. The breadth of knowledge on display is impressive, and the dedication of the author is quite clear. Further, the book also features an extended “Plan of Action” outlining areas that the author believes need to be corrected in order to help realign the government and the country. Along with this, the author reproduces multiple government documents for reference in the volume.
Overall, The Failed Experiment: Was Hamilton Right? stands out because of the level of detail and dedication put into it, as well as its accessibility to readers and potential for active engagement.
