President Stuff

George Washington (Federalist)

First U.S. president who helped establish the federal government, cabinet system, and national stability

Whiskey Rebellion

Tax protest that was suppressed by Washington, showing the federal government’s authority to enforce laws

Farewell Address

Washington’s warning against political parties and foreign alliances

Cabinet System Created

Washington established the presidential cabinet to organize executive leadership and strengthen the national government

John Adams (Federalist)

Federalist president focused on strengthening national government during foreign tensions with France

Alien & Sedition Acts

Laws that restricted immigration and limited free speech, especially criticism of the federal government

XYZ Affair

Diplomatic conflict with France where American envoys were asked for bribes, increasing tensions between the two nations

Focus of John Adams’s Presidency

Emphasized strong federal government and managing foreign conflicts

Thomas Jefferson (Democratic

Republican)

Louisiana Purchase

Doubled the size of the United States through the acquisition of vast western territory from France

Lewis and Clark Expedition

Exploration of the western territories to map land and establish American presence

Embargo Act

Policy that halted American trade with foreign nations, hurting the U.S. economy but aiming to avoid war

Jefferson’s Focus

Supported states’ rights, farming economy, and westward expansion

James Madison (Jeffersonian)

President during the War of 1812 who faced conflict with Britain and internal challenges

War of 1812

Conflict between the U.S. and Britain over trade restrictions and national sovereignty

Burning of Washington

British forces attacked and burned the U.S. capital during the War of 1812

National Bank Continues

The Bank of the United States remained important for managing the nation’s finances

James Monroe (Nationalism)

President associated with national unity and the “Era of Good Feelings”

Monroe Doctrine

Policy stating European nations should not colonize or interfere in the Western Hemisphere

Missouri Compromise

Agreement balancing free and slave states while limiting slavery north of the 36°30’ line

John Quincy Adams (National Republican)

President who supported federal economic development and internal improvements

American System Support

Advocated for a national bank, tariffs, and infrastructure improvements

Election of 1824 “Corrupt Bargain”

Controversial election where Adams became president after Henry Clay supported him

Andrew Jackson (Jacksonian Democracy)

President who expanded democracy for the “common man” and strengthened presidential power

Indian Removal Act

Forced relocation of Native American tribes west of the Mississippi River

Bank War

Conflict between Jackson and the national bank over federal economic power

Jacksonian Democracy

Emphasized greater political participation for ordinary citizens and a strong executive presidency