What did Henry Clay's System emphasize?

Henry Clay's System, known for its advocacy of the American System, emphasized internal improvements and the establishment of a national bank as essential elements for promoting economic growth and national unity. The American System called for a combination of protective tariffs to support American industry, a national bank to stabilize the currency and credit, and infrastructure projects such as roads and canals to facilitate commerce and transportation across the country. These components were designed to strengthen the economy, create jobs, and enhance the connectivity of regions, ultimately fostering a sense of nationalism.

The focus on internal improvements aimed at enhancing transportation networks was key to helping diverse regions of the nation economically interlink, which Clay believed was crucial for a prosperous and cohesive United States. This vision contrasts sharply with the other choices, which either advocate for reduced government involvement or focus on divisive issues such as slavery and tariffs, contradicting the comprehensive economic approach that Clay proposed.