Why was republicanism pursued after the War of Independence?

Republicanism

The idea of public good or the good of the whole, as deemed by Thomas Paine, involving elected representatives and elements of democracy.

Reasons America was suited to republicanism

Colonial assemblies had power, most white men could vote, and colonial politics became more democratic by the 1770s.

Sons of Liberty

A group that aided in spreading political consciousness among Americans during colonial times.

Committees of Safety

Groups that brought many new men into politics in 1774-75.

Elitism

A belief that emphasizes maintaining order and limiting democracy, often through a bicameral legislature.

Democrats (in context of the lecture)

Groups often from poorer backgrounds advocating for complete equality and freedom from oppression, favoring low or no property qualifications for holding office.

Bicameral legislature

A political system with two houses; one representing the people and one representing the elite.

Voting eligibility in Elitist view

Franchise often limited to property owners with high property qualifications.

Democratic view on elections

Favoring frequent elections and broader suffrage with low or no property qualifications for holding office.

Jon Locke

Philosopher who influenced republican ideals, emphasizing consent.

Thomas Paine

An advocate of republicanism who emphasized public good.