Final answer:
James Madison was one of the leading opponents to Alexander Hamilton's proposal for a national bank, due to his strict constructionist view of the Constitution and concerns over centralization of economic power. The correct option is C. James Madison
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the leading opponents of Alexander Hamilton's proposal for a national bank was James Madison. Madison believed in a strict constructionist approach to interpreting the Constitution and argued against the bank because he felt it would concentrate too much economic power in a central institution, reminiscent of the British monarchy.
He advocated for multiple regional banks instead and doubted the constitutionality of a national bank. Madison's stance on the national bank remained consistent over time, as illustrated by his refusal to renew the bank's charter in 1811 when he was President, a decision which later presented challenges during the War of 1812. The correct option is C. James Madison