The First Administration: Washington, His Cabinet, and the Issues

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture on the First Administration, focusing on notable figures, political principles, treaties, and domestic and foreign issues.

George Washington

First President of the United States, known for his leadership during the American Revolution.

John Adams

Second President of the United States and originally a prominent advocate for independence; known for his rivalry with Washington.

Superstitious veneration

Excessive admiration often based on myths or exaggerated beliefs about someone, referenced by John Adams regarding Washington.

Vice Presidency

Role described by John Adams as the most insignificant office, characterized by ridicule and humorous titles.

Hamilton's Plan

A strategy for addressing the national debt which included increasing, decreasing, eliminating, or managing it.

Strict Construction

The belief that the Constitution limits government power to only what is explicitly stated.

Loose Construction

The belief that the Constitution grants broader powers that can be interpreted beyond the text.

Jay’s Treaty

An agreement between the US and Britain that aimed to resolve issues remaining since the American Revolutionary War.

Whiskey Rebellion

A violent tax protest in the United States beginning in 1791 and ending in 1794 during Washington's presidency.

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws passed in 1798 that made it harder for immigrants to vote and allowed for the imprisonment of those who criticized the government.

Agrarian Virtue

The belief that a society based on agriculture would be virtuous and free from the corruption found in urban environments.

Pinckney's Treaty

A 1795 agreement with Spain that defined the border between the US and Spanish Florida and guaranteed American navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions

Political statements that argued the states could nullify federal laws they deemed unconstitutional.

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident involving France that escalated tensions between the US and France.

Domestic Affairs

Issues and policies concerning activities within a country, particularly those concerning governance and domestic peace.

Foreign Affairs

Strategies and decisions that guide a nation's relationships and dealings with other countries.