Development of Political Parties

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	Democratic-Republicans
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	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