U.S. Political Parties and Foreign Policy: Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans

Federalists

Political group led by Alexander Hamilton and John Adams that favored Britain in foreign affairs.

Democratic-Republicans

Political group led by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison that favored France during its revolution.

Jay's Treaty

A 1794 agreement supported by Federalists to avoid war with Britain and settle leftover issues from the American Revolution.

Quasi-War with France

An undeclared naval war fought by the U.S. against France from 1798 to 1800, reflecting Federalist suspicion toward France.

Embargo Act of 1807

A peaceful trade restriction pushed by Jefferson and Madison instead of war, which ultimately hurt the U.S. economy.

Revolution of 1800

The election of Thomas Jefferson that marked the end of Federalist dominance and a shift in power to the Democratic-Republicans.

U.S. neutrality tradition

A long-term legacy of the Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans debate, emphasizing the U.S. independence from European alliances.

Federalist beliefs

Favored a strong central government, good international credit, and avoided foreign wars that could hurt the economy.

Democratic-Republican beliefs supported

Supported liberty and revolutions, and opposed aligning with Britain, fearing it would support monarchy and elitism.

Federalist actions

Supported Jay's Treaty and opposed helping France during its war with Britain.

Democratic-Republican actions

Criticized Federalists for being pro-British and pushed for peaceful trade restrictions.

Federalist outcomes angered

Jay's Treaty angered many but helped maintain peace and economic growth.

Democratic-Republican outcomes

Gained popularity leading to Jefferson's election and focused on avoiding entanglement while defending American interests.

Federalist legacy

Established a tradition of U.S. neutrality in foreign affairs.

Democratic-Republican legacy

Contributed to the spread of republican ideals in America.

Federalist view on the French Revolution

Feared it was too violent and chaotic, worried about the spread of radical ideas.

Democratic-Republican view on the French Revolution

Saw it as a fight for liberty similar to America's own struggle for independence.

Federalist main goal

To maintain stability, promote trade, and avoid war.

Democratic-Republican main goal

To support liberty and assist revolutions.

Key event for Federalists is

Jay's Treaty.

Key event for Democratic-Republicans supporting

Support for the French Revolution.

Outcome for Federalists

Achieved peace and economic growth but lost popularity.

Outcome for Democratic-Republicans

Rose to power in 1800 but had limited success with embargo policies.