Chapter 6 - Securing the Constitution and the Union (1787-1800)

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Land policy for new western territories that established self-government terms and banned slavery.

Shay's Rebellion

Armed uprising in 1787 by farmers seeking debt relief through paper currency and lower taxes.

Federalism

Division of governmental authority between the national government and the states.

Separation of Powers

Division of government into three branches with checks and balances.

The Federalist Papers

Collection of essays supporting the ratification of the Constitution.

Bill of Rights (1791)

First ten amendments to the Constitution guaranteeing individual rights.

Jeffersonian Republicans

Political party founded by Thomas Jefferson opposing the Federalist Party.

Hamilton's Economic Reforms

Measures to strengthen the economy, promote industries, and establish a national bank.

Bank of the United States (BUS)

National bank for holding federal funds and issuing currency.

French Revolution

1789 movement that overthrew the monarchy and caused instability.

Jay's Treaty

1794 agreement resolving trade disputes and British fort evacuations.

Whiskey Rebellion (1794)

Farmers' protest against whiskey tax, suppressed by federal forces.

Alien and Sedition Acts (1798)

Laws limiting speech and press freedoms, targeting immigrants.

Election of 1800

First Democratic-Republican victory, marking a political shift.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong centralized government during the Constitution's ratification.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of the Constitution advocating for state power.

Virginia Plan

Proposal for proportional representation in Congress favoring larger states.

New Jersey Plan

Proposal for equal state representation in Congress maintaining a unicameral structure.

XYZ Affair (1798)

Diplomatic incident with France leading to public outrage over bribery demands.

Branches of Government

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches designed to balance power.

Washington's Farewell Address

Warning against foreign alliances and political parties, promoting national unity.

Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809)

Key actions during his presidency.