Founding-Antebellum Era

Federalists

A political party in the early United States (1790s-1810s) that advocated for a strong central government and had support from merchants. Key figure: Alexander Hamilton.

Democratic-Republicans

A political party in the early United States (1790s-1820s) that advocated for states’ rights and had an agrarian focus. Key figure: Thomas Jefferson.

Era of Good Feelings

Period from 1815–1820s marked by the collapse of the Federalist Party and one-party dominance by the Democratic-Republicans, though internal divisions grew.

Democrats (1830s-1850s)

Led by Andrew Jackson, this party was anti-bank, pro states’ rights, and pro-expansion.

Whigs (1830s-1850s)

Led by Henry Clay, this party was pro-bank, advocated for internal improvements and moral reform, and was cautious about expansion.

Rise of the Republican Party (1850s)

Whigs collapse over slavery; Republicans form as anti-slavery party.

    •    Republicans: Free labor, abolitionism, economic modernization.