What was the primary purpose of the National Bank Act of 1864?

The primary purpose of the National Bank Act of 1864 was to create a framework for a national banking system, which included the chartering of national banks. This act sought to provide a uniform national currency and to help stabilize the banking system during a time of financial uncertainty in the United States. By establishing a system of national banks under the supervision of the U.S. Treasury, the Act aimed to reduce the risks associated with state-chartered banks and enhance the reliability of the banking sector.

As a result, the act led to the issuance of a standardized national currency backed by government bonds. This move was pivotal in the evolution of the U.S. banking infrastructure, ultimately fostering a more interconnected and robust financial system. Thus, the correct answer encompasses both the chartering of national banks and the establishment of a national banking system, reinforcing the foundational framework for modern banking in the U.S.