Early US Presidents: Challenges and Key Decisions (1789-1837)
Washington Presidency
Challenges: Creating a new government, managing war debt, and establishing a financial system.
Jefferson and Hamilton Disagreement: Federal power and economic policies. Washington sided with Hamilton’s financial plan.
Hamilton’s Financial Plan
- Federal assumption of state debts.
- Creation of a national bank.
- Protective tariffs for domestic manufacturing.
All points were enacted.
Whiskey Rebellion
Causes: Tax on whiskey, seen as unfair to farmers.
Results: Federal troops suppressed the rebellion, demonstrating government power.
Similar to Shays’ Rebellion in grievances but differed in the government’s response.
Citizen Genet Affair
US Neutrality: Washington chose neutrality in the France-Britain war.
Genet’s Actions: Encouraged American support for France, violating neutrality.
Proclamation of Neutrality: US declared neutrality.
The Jay Treaty
Criticism: Seen as too favorable to Britain.
Washington’s Third Term: Declined, setting a two-term precedent.
Adams Presidency
Quasi-War with France: Undeclared naval conflict.
XYZ Affair
Cause: French agents demanded bribes for negotiations.
Alien and Sedition Acts: Aimed to suppress political opposition.
Alien Act allowed deportation, Sedition Act restricted speech.
Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions: Argued against the Acts’ constitutionality.
Jefferson Presidency
Election of 1800
Significance: Peaceful power transfer.
12th Amendment: Prevented electoral ties.
Louisiana Purchase
Motivation: Westward expansion and control of the Mississippi River.
Effects: Doubled US size, raised constitutional questions.
Lewis & Clark Expedition
Purpose: Explore Louisiana Territory.
Results: Provided geographical information, aided expansion.
Trade Embargo
Purpose: Force respect for US neutrality.
Outcome: Hurt American businesses, repealed.
James Madison
War of 1812: Causes included impressment and trade interference.
Consequences: National pride, decline of the Federalist Party.
Star-Spangled Banner
Symbol of American resilience.
James Monroe
Era of Good Feelings: Period of national unity.
Monroe Doctrine: Warned against European interference in the Americas.
Missouri Compromise: Addressed slavery expansion.
John Quincy Adams
Election of 1824: Decided by the House, “Corrupt Bargain” allegation.
Andrew Jackson
Popularity: Appealed to the “common man”.
Voting Law Changes: Expanded suffrage.
Indian Removal Act
Motivation: Land for white settlers.
Trail of Tears: Forced removal of Native American tribes.