federalists in power

Federalists

Supporters of the U.S. Constitution and its ratification, who played a key role in establishing the new republic and held most positions in the government, including Washington’s cabinet. They advocated for a strong central government.

George Washington's cabinet appointments

Included prominent figures such as Alexander Hamilton as Secretary of the Treasury, Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State, Henry Knox as Secretary of War, and Edmund Randolph as Attorney General, each bringing diverse perspectives to the administration.

Hamilton's Report on Public Credit

Recommended that the federal government honor all its debts to establish creditworthiness and suggested the government assume state debts, laying the foundation for a robust financial system.

National Bank proposal

Hamilton's proposal to create a Bank of the United States aimed at stabilizing the economy, regulating currency, and managing federal revenues to promote economic growth.

Jefferson's vision vs. Hamilton's vision

Jefferson idealized a nation of agrarian, self-sufficient citizens who valued farming, while Hamilton believed in fostering a commercial economy centered on banking, industry, and trade.

Strict vs. loose constructionists

Strict constructionists, like Jefferson, believed in only exercising powers specifically mentioned in the Constitution, whereas loose constructionists, like Hamilton, utilized the implied powers clause to justify a broader interpretation of federal authority.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution intended to guarantee individual rights and address concerns from Anti-Federalists about potential government overreach and the protection of liberties.

Tariff Act of 1789

Legislation passed by Congress imposing duties on imports to raise revenue for the new government while also protecting fledgling American industries from foreign competition.

Political discord in Washington's cabinet

Significant division between Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans arose over Hamilton's financial program, leading to ideological battles that shaped the early political landscape of the nation.

The significance of the Dinner Table Bargain

Jefferson's agreement to support Hamilton's financial plans in exchange for the relocation of the national capital to Washington, D.C., which helped secure political compromises during a contentious period.