Building the Government
What challenges did George Washington face in setting up the first government?
He had to create new systems (cabinet, courts, taxes) without examples to follow.
What was the main purpose of Hamilton’s financial plan?
To build credit, strengthen the economy, and unite the states under one system.
Why did Washington want to stay neutral in foreign conflicts?
The U.S. was young, weak, and needed to avoid war.
What did Federalists and Democratic-Republicans disagree about most?
The balance of power between the national and state governments.
What goal did the Lewis and Clark Expedition accomplish beyond exploring land?
They mapped routes, documented nature, and strengthened U.S. claims in the West.
Why did Washington warn against political parties in his Farewell Address?
He believed they would divide the nation and cause conflict.
Why did Jefferson oppose the National Bank?
He believed it gave the federal government too much power and helped the wealthy.
What caused tension between the U.S. and Britain leading up to the War of 1812?
British impressment of sailors and interference with trade.
Why did the Alien and Sedition Acts anger Democratic-Republicans?
They limited free speech and targeted their supporters.
Why did Native American leaders like Tecumseh resist U.S. expansion?
They wanted to protect their land and culture from being taken.
How did the Elastic Clause create debate between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans?
Federalists used it to justify new powers; D-Rs said it gave government too much control.
How did the Compromise of 1790 help solve a major political dispute?
It balanced Hamilton’s debt plan with the South’s desire for the capital to move closer to them.
How did the XYZ Affair affect the relationship between the U.S. and France?
It increased distrust and led to an undeclared naval war (Quasi-War).
How did the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions challenge federal authority?
They claimed states could ignore or nullify federal laws they believed were unconstitutional.
How did the Haitian and French Revolutions influence the U.S.?
They inspired ideas of liberty but also created fear of rebellion at home.
How did the idea of a “peaceful transfer of power” after the Election of 1800 strengthen democracy?
It showed the U.S. could change leaders without violence, proving the system worked.
What was one negative effect of Jefferson’s Embargo Act?
It hurt U.S. merchants and farmers by stopping trade.
Why did Jefferson’s purchase of Louisiana contradict his political beliefs?
He believed in strict interpretation of the Constitution but used implied powers to buy land.
Why might sectionalism be considered dangerous for a new nation?
It made regions care more about local interests than the country as a whole.
How did Manifest Destiny begin to shape American identity during this period?
Americans believed it was their mission to spread westward and expand democracy.
What does the debate over states’ rights vs. federal power reveal about early American politics?
The nation was still figuring out how to balance unity and independence.
How did economic disagreements lead to the formation of political parties?
Competing visions
industry vs. farming
created long-term political divisions.
How did the War of 1812 change America’s view of itself?
It created national pride and a sense of unity
People began seeing themselves as Americans first
How did the Election of 1800 mark a turning point for political power?
It showed the Democratic-Republicans’ rise and proved peaceful transitions were possible.
What lesson did Americans learn about unity and independence from 1791–1815?
That freedom required balance between power and liberty, change and stability.