Growth of the Nation Events

Origin of the Federalist Political Party (1790’s)

During debates over ratification of the new U.S. Constitution in 1788, divisions emerged among political leaders in the 1790s. On one side, a leading Secretary of the Treasury advocated for a strong federal government with a loose interpretation of the Constitution—supporting powers deemed “necessary and proper” for Congress. His followers, largely large landowners, bankers, and businessmen in New England and the middle states, also favored closer ties with England in foreign affairs. The last president from this faction eventually saw the party fade after 1800.

Origin of the Democratic-Republican Party (1790’s)

Amid debates over the scope of federal power during the Constitution’s ratification, a prominent Secretary of State and a key ally from Virginia championed a vision of limited government. Favoring a strict interpretation of the Constitution, they argued that Congress and the President should exercise only those powers explicitly granted. With support from another influential Virginian, they promoted policies favoring agriculture in the South and closer alignment with France, setting the stage for a political coalition that eventually became known by this name.

Election of 1800

In a landmark and bloodless transfer of power, a sitting president from one party ran for a second term but was defeated by a rival candidate representing a different faction. The contest became so deadlocked that the House of Representatives had to decide the outcome after his Vice-Presidential candidate tied with his opponent. Influential support from a leading Cabinet member—who distrusted the rival’s running mate—helped break the tie, marking the first time control of the government shifted from one party to another without violence.

Midnight Appointments (1801)

In the final hours of his presidency, after an electoral defeat, a departing president hurried to secure his party’s legacy by appointing a large number of Federalist judges and officials to federal positions—positions that included key roles in the judiciary and local governance. Some appointment papers were delayed or undelivered when the new administration took over, prompting its Secretary of State to block their delivery. This dispute later escalated into a landmark Supreme Court case that established the principle of judicial review.

Louisiana Purchase (1803)

In 1803, under the leadership of a president known for his belief in limited government and expansion, the United States doubled its size by purchasing over 800,000 square miles from Napoleon’s France for $15 million. This vast territory, stretching from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains, prompted an expedition led by renowned explorers to map and study the new lands, laying the groundwork for future westward expansion.