Vocabulary
Define the term "inauguration" as used in the context of George Washington.
The Official Oath of Office
What major event in France in 1789 shocked and initially excited many Americans?
The French Revolution
After the Constitution, who had to set up the federal court system and what law did they pass in 1789?
Congress who set up the Judiciary Act
What advice did Washington give Americans in his Farewell Address about foreign affairs?
Avoid Political Parties
Remain Neutral in World Affairs
Who served as Secretary of State under Washington?
Thomas Jefferson
What is a "precedent," and give one example set by Washington.
A precedent is an act or decision that sets an example for others. One precedent that Washington set was only serving 2 terms. Another precedent that Washington set was having a cabinet.
By 1793 American opinion about the French Revolution split. Which cabinet leader supported France?
Thomas Jefferson
After the courts were establish, who was the first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court?
John Jay
Name two precedents set by Washington
establishing a cabinet, choosing a peaceful transfer of power by stepping down after two terms, creating neutral foreign policy.
Who served as Secretary of the Treasury and what was his main goal regarding national debt?
Alexander Hamilton; He wanted the US debt free after The Revolutionary War.
Explain what a "cabinet" is.
A cabinet is a group of advisors to the president. They give advice to help him/her make decisions.
What action did Britain and France take that affected U.S. merchant ships during the 1790s?
Both countries would seize US trade ships or destroy them.
Describe the Whiskey Rebellion and how Washington responded.
It was a revolt by backwoods farmers over a whiskey tax. Washington sent in the militia to stop the revolt. This act established the power of the federal government.
What did Washington's response to the Whiskey Rebellion teach Americans?
It showed the federal government could enforce laws and maintain order; set precedent for federal response to rebellion.
Name Washington’s Secretary of War and describe his duties.
Henry Knox whose duty was to create a stong military.
What is a "bond" ?
It is a certificate that promises to repay interest and money that has been loaned to you.
What treaty did John Jay negotiate with Britain and name two outcomes of that treaty
Why did many southerners oppose Hamilton’s plan for federal payment of state debts, and what compromise was reached?
Describe one long-term effect of Hamilton’s financial policies on the U.S. economy.
Hamilton’s policies established public credit, encouraged industry, and created the Bank of the United States to stabilize currency and credit.
Name Washington’s Attorney General and explain his duties.
Edmund Randolph whose duties were to interpret laws and make sure the presidential decisions were constitutional.
Define "tariff" and explain how Hamilton proposed to use tariffs in his financial plan.
A tariff is a tax that the government charges. Hamilton wanted to tax imports to raise money for the government.
Explain why Washington issued the Neutrality Proclamation of 1793 and one consequence it had for his administration.
Washington issued neutrality to avoid being pulled into European wars; consequence: deepened cabinet divisions and led to Jefferson’s resignation.
Explain how rivalries within the cabinet between Hamilton and Jefferson) affected Washington’s presidency. Give two specific examples.
How Washington’s choice to step down after two terms influenced future presidents and American politics?
It unofficially set the term limit to 2 terms for a president.
What are the general duties of a presidential cabinet?
Roles: advise the president and administer departments