Federalists vs Democratic-Republicans The Battle for America's Vision

In the late 1780s, the American colonies faced chaos under the failing Articles of Confederation. Alexander Hamilton, advocating for a strong central government, led the Federalists to push for the U.S. Constitution's ratification. In contrast, Thomas Jefferson and the Democratic-Republicans championed states' rights and an agrarian society. The 1790s saw intense political battles, including the Federalist Papers and the Jay Treaty. The election of 1800 marked a peaceful power transfer to Jefferson. His presidency included the Louisiana Purchase and the controversial Embargo Act. By the 1810s, the Federalist Party declined, especially after the War of 1812 and the Hartford Convention. The Era of Good Feelings under James Monroe followed, marked by temporary national unity.

What was the main reason Alexander Hamilton advocated for a strong national government?

• To promote agricultural development

• To ensure economic stability and unity

• To reduce the power of the states

• To maintain strong ties with France

Which of the following best describes Thomas Jefferson's vision for America?

• An alliance with Britain for economic growth

• A strong central government with loose constitutional interpretation

• A society based on independent farmers

• A nation focused on industry and commerce

What was the purpose of the Federalist Papers written by Hamilton and Madison?

• To argue for a strong central government

• To support the Embargo Act

• To advocate for states' rights

• To promote the Jay Treaty

Why was the Jay Treaty of 1794 controversial?

• It increased taxes on American goods

• It led to war with Britain

• It was seen as a betrayal of revolutionary values

• It favored French interests

What was significant about the election of 1800?

• It led to the dissolution of the Democratic-Republican Party

• It was the first election with a Federalist victory

• It marked the first peaceful transfer of power between rival parties

• It resulted in a tie between Jefferson and Adams

What was one of the major achievements of Jefferson's presidency?

• The Louisiana Purchase

• The Embargo Act

• The Hartford Convention

• The Jay Treaty

What was the impact of the Embargo Act of 1807?

• It led to war with Britain

• It strengthened ties with France

• It boosted the American economy

• It caused economic hardship and opposition

What was the Hartford Convention of 1814 known for?

• Supporting the War of 1812

• Discussing secession and damaging the Federalist reputation

• Advocating for the Louisiana Purchase

• Promoting the Embargo Act

What characterized the Era of Good Feelings?

• Rise of new political factions

• Temporary decline in partisan conflict

• Dominance of the Federalist Party

• Increased partisan conflict

What was a key factor in the decline of the Federalist Party?

• Alliance with France

• Perceived disloyalty during the Hartford Convention

• Opposition to the Embargo Act

• Support for the War of 1812