Question

What made trade difficult for the United States in 1790, when Hamilton was secretary of the treasury?

Answer 1

Alexander Hamilton created a system of tariffs, and excise taxes into effect to help pay down the national debt accrued during the Revolutionary war. The excise taxes eventually led to the Whiskey Rebellion.

Answer 2

Hamilton was heavily in favor of trading with Great Britain, but the Republicans were against it, arguing that it would reduce Americans' liberty. Therefore the biggest probably facing trade was political opposition.