Lecture Notes: Early 1800s American Politics

1804 Election

Thomas Jefferson ran for a second term as President and won against Federalist Charles Pinckney.
- Pinckney became the first presidential candidate to lose his home state, South Carolina.
Key Event: Burr-Hamilton Duel (July 11, 1804)
- Aaron Burr, sitting Vice President, and Alexander Hamilton had a duel.
- Burr challenged Hamilton due to personal insults exchanged through the press.
- Hamilton fired first and missed; Burr shot Hamilton, fatally wounding him.
- The duel took place in New Jersey due to lighter anti-dueling laws.
- Hamilton’s death marked the decline of the Federalist Party.

Hamilton was a central figure and leader; his death left the party disorganized.
Federalist influence declined, especially post-War of 1812.
Democratic-Republicans gained increasing control and majorities.

James Madison ran as the Democratic-Republican candidate against Charles Pinckney.
- Madison won despite the unpopular Embargo Act of 1807.
Jefferson did not run, adhering to the two-term standard set by George Washington.

Emergence of politicians who did not participate in the Revolutionary War.
Focused on future growth rather than past achievements.
The War Hawks, advocates for war with Britain, became prominent.
- Notable figures: Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun.

Henry Clay (1777-1852)
- Known as the "Great Compromiser."
- Served in politics for 46 years: House of Representatives, Speaker of the House, Senator, Secretary of State.
- Nationalist policies aimed at the greater good.
- Ran for President three times unsuccessfully.
John C. Calhoun (1782-1850)
- Powerful Southern politician, defender of slavery.
- Served as a Representative, Senator, Secretary of State, Secretary of War, and Vice President.
- Initially a nationalist, later a champion for Southern interests.

The lecture will continue to explore the emerging conflicts under Madison's presidency and the lead-up to the War of 1812.