First American Political Party Study Guide

Definition of a Political Party

• A political party is a group of people with similar beliefs about government.
• They aim to influence government actions, bills, laws, and foreign policy.
• They choose and campaign for candidates to guide the country in their desired direction.

Early American Fears of Political Parties

• Many Americans feared political parties due to partisan conflicts seen in Britain.
• George Washington opposed political parties, fearing division and power abuse.
• Concerns were that officials might use political power for personal gain.

Emergence of First Political Parties

• Arguments between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson led to the formation of political sides.
• Supporters of these figures formed the first political parties.

Democratic-Republican Party

• Founders: Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
• Key Supporters: George Clinton, Aaron Burr.
• Support Base:
  • Farmers (Jefferson supported agriculture)
  • Craft workers
  • Wealthy planters
• Beliefs:
  • Emphasis on agriculture
  • Strong state power
  • Strict interpretation of the Constitution
  • Pro-French
  • Opposed national bank and protective tariffs
  • Believed in political power for all people

Federalist Party

• Founder: Alexander Hamilton.
• Key Supporters: John Adams, Roger Sherman, John Jay.
• Support Base:
  • Merchants (supported by Hamilton’s economic policies)
  • Some southern planters
• Beliefs:
  • Emphasis on manufacturing, shipping, and trade
  • Strong central government
  • Loose interpretation of the Constitution
  • Pro-British
  • Favored national bank and protective tariffs
  • Believed in leadership by the wealthy and well-educated

Key Differences Between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans

• Economy: Manufacturing vs. Agriculture
• Government Power: Strong federal vs. State power
• Constitution Interpretation: Loose vs. Strict
• Foreign Policy: Pro-British vs. Pro-French
• National Bank: Supported vs. Opposed
• Leadership: Wealthy/educated vs. All people

These points outline the foundation and beliefs of the first two political parties in America.