In "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation," Joseph J. Ellis explores the enduring ideological divide among historians regarding the American founding. The debate often centers around two primary figures: Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton. Historians frequently align themselves with Jeffersonian ideals of individualism, while others embrace Hamiltonian nationalism, reflecting broader themes of liberalism versus conservatism.

This dichotomy persists despite many historians taking a middle-ground approach over the years. The core contention remains clear, as scholars consistently identify with either Jeffersonian or Hamiltonian perspectives, emphasizing the significance of these foundational philosophies in shaping American political identity and discourse.