- Early America believed that organizing a political party was corrupt or subversive
- Parties would fill Congress with men of little ability who put special interests over national welfare
- George Washington tried to have an impartial presidency by consulting members of both camps
By 1794, split into two parties: Federalists who controlled the executive, and the Democratic Republicans, who controlled the House of Representatives.
Federalists
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Democratic-Republicans
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- Believe strong central gov’t needed
- Support Base: North, upper class, religious, industry
- Insisted gov’t was for people, but not by people- distrust masses
- Condemn French Revolution; worried same could happen in USA
- Key figures: John Adams, Alexander Hamilton
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- Believe state gov’ts should be strongest; prevent King-like behaviour, encourage local participation in gov’t
- Support Base: South, rural, common man
- Believed power corrupts; thus popular democracy key
- Support French Rev.- Believe citizens should rise up against corrupt, privileged gov’t
- Key figures: Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe
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Election of 1796- Candidate:
- Federalists: John Adams- Washington’s VP
- Democratic: Republicans- Thomas Jefferson
Adams becomes President, Jefferson VP as 2nd in votes (changed by 12th amendment)
William completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in 2013. He current serves as a lecturer, tutor and freelance writer. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, walking his dog and parasailing.
Article last reviewed: 2022 | St. Rosemary Institution © 2010-2025 | Creative Commons 4.0
