Lecture Notes: Early American History

John Adams and the Alienation of Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams engaged in a quasi-war with France and signed the Alien and Sedition Acts.
• Alienated Thomas Jefferson and his Democratic-Republican supporters.
• Led to Adams becoming the first one-term president, defeated in the 1800 election.

The Election of 1800

• Unusual election due to early electoral rules.
• President and Vice President were originally from different parties.
• Federalists ran John Adams and Charles Pinckney.
• Republicans ran Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr.
• Jefferson and Burr tied; election decided by the House of Representatives after 36 ballots.
• Aaron Burr's refusal to defer led to tension with Jefferson.

Thomas Jefferson's Presidency

• Jefferson and Republicans gained control of both the presidency and Congress.
• Federalists retained control over the judiciary.

Judiciary Act of 1801

• John Adams packed the courts with Federalists through last-minute appointments.
• William Marbury didn't receive his appointment, leading to the Marbury vs. Madison case.

Marbury vs. Madison Case

• A significant Supreme Court decision under Chief Justice John Marshall.
• Established the principle of judicial review, empowering the courts.
• Demonstrated the judiciary as a non-political entity.

Jefferson's Vision for America

• Advocated for an agrarian society, required western expansion.
• Needed navigation rights on the Mississippi River for transport.

Louisiana Purchase

• Napoleon offered Louisiana Territory for $15 million due to problems in Haiti.
• Jefferson faced opposition but used the "elastic clause" to justify the purchase.
• Purchase ratified by Republican support in Congress.

Lewis and Clark Expedition

• Commissioned by Jefferson to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory.
• Important for scientific, economic, and political reasons.
• Established U.S. claims in the West and facilitated expansionism.

Aaron Burr's Political Career

• Burr became vice president but sought more power.
• Lost the New York gubernatorial race due to Hamilton's influence.
• Challenged Hamilton to a duel, leading to Hamilton's death.
• Burr fled to avoid repercussions.

Burr Conspiracy and Treason Trial

• Burr allegedly plotted with James Wilkinson to seize Louisiana.
• Arrested and tried for treason but acquitted due to lack of evidence.
• Became a disgraced figure in American history.

Conclusion of Jefferson's Presidency

• Discussion of foreign policy issues and lead-up to the War of 1812 will follow in future lectures.