The Early United States: Government and Political Parties

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and events related to the early political landscape of the United States, emphasizing political parties and significant historical events.

Whiskey Rebellion

A revolt by farmers in Western Pennsylvania against a tax on alcohol that was suppressed by President Washington.

Virginia & Kentucky Resolutions

Proposed documents by Jefferson and Madison to oppose the Alien & Sedition Acts, emphasizing states' rights.

(Democratic-) Republicans

The first political party system in the U.S. that emerged from disputes in Washington's cabinet.

Jay's Treaty

A controversial agreement with Britain to ensure U.S. neutrality during the French and British war.

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident that outraged Americans and led to the Quasi-War with France.

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws passed by Federalists making it harder to become a citizen and restricting criticism of the government.

Treaty of Greenville

An agreement that followed the Battle of Fallen Timbers, resulting in the cession of land from Native Americans.

Federalists

Early political party that favored a strong central government and supported business and manufacturing.

Judiciary Act of 1789

Legislation that established the Supreme Court and a system of lower federal courts.

Judicial Review

The principle that the Supreme Court has the final authority in interpreting the Constitution.

Corps of Discovery

The team led by Lewis and Clark to explore the Louisiana Territory and find a water route to the Pacific.

Impressment

The British practice of forcibly drafting American sailors into their navy, a leading cause of the War of 1812.

Haitian Revolution

A slave uprising in French-controlled Saint Domingue that led to the Louisiana Purchase.

Macon's Bill No. 2

An act aimed at resuming peaceful trade with Britain and France that ultimately failed.

War Hawks

Democratic-Republican congressmen who advocated for war with Great Britain.

Embargo Act of 1807

A law that banned U.S. exports to foreign ports, crippling the American economy.

Revolution of 1800

The election of Thomas Jefferson, representing a peaceful transfer of power between rival parties.

Pinckney's Treaty

A 1795 agreement with Spain granting U.S. navigation rights on the Mississippi River and access to New Orleans.