APUSH Period 3 Key Terms Part 3

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Judiciary Act of 1789

Established the structure of the federal judiciary, including a Supreme Court, district courts, and circuit courts. This allowed the federal courts to have the final say on the meaning of the Constitution.

George Washington

First President of the United States (1789-1797). Presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and established key precedents, such as forming a presidential cabinet and serving only two terms. His leadership emphasized unity and moderation in navigating the challenges of the new republic.

Alexander Hamilton/Five-Point Financial Plan

a series of measures proposed by Alexander Hamilton in the late 18th century aimed at stabilizing and improving the financial system of the newly formed United States. It included the federal assumption of state debts, the establishment of a national bank, and the imposition of tariffs to generate revenue. This plan played a crucial role in shaping the economic policies of the new republic and influenced the development of American capitalism.

French Revolution

The French Revolution was a period of social and political upheaval in France from 1789 to 1799 that fundamentally changed the structure of French society and government. It was inspired by Enlightenment ideas and the American Revolution, leading to the rise of radical factions, the overthrow of the monarchy, and the establishment of a republic. The revolution sparked widespread change in Europe and influenced revolutionary movements worldwide. Initially, many Americans supported the revolution, viewing it as a continuation of their own struggle for liberty and democracy. However, this support fractured along party lines as the French Revolution descended into radicalism and violence, including the Reign of Terror.

Proclamation of Neutrality 1793

Issued by George Washington to declare the United States neutral in the conflict between France and Great Britain. Federalists generally supported this decision, while Democratic-Republicans were often pro-French and opposed it.

Jay’s Treaty with Great Britain, 1794

Negotiated by Chief Justice John Jay to resolve issues with Britain, such as their continued presence in the Northwest Territory and seizure of American ships. While it helped avert war, the treaty was controversial and seen by Democratic-Republicans as favoring British interests.

Pinckney’s Treaty with Spain 1795

Secured American access to the Mississippi River and the port of New Orleans, which was crucial for westward expansion and trade. It also established the boundary between the U.S. and Spanish Florida.

Whiskey Rebellion 1794

Uprising by western Pennsylvania farmers protesting the federal excise tax on whiskey, which was part of Hamilton's financial plan. President Washington sent 13,000 militiamen to put down the revolt, demonstrating the federal government's power to enforce its laws.

Federalists (political party)

Led by Alexander Hamilton, favored a strong central government, a commercial economy, and a loose interpretation of the Constitution. Supporters were often northern merchants and businessmen.

Democratic-Republicans (political party)

Led by Thomas Jefferson, advocated for states' rights, an agrarian society, and a strict interpretation of the Constitution. Their base was primarily southern farmers.

Loose Construction

(Federalist) The belief that the government can take any action that the Constitution does not forbid. Hamilton used this to justify the national bank, arguing it was "necessary and proper".

Strict Construction

(Democratic-Republican) The belief that the government can only do what the Constitution explicitly allows. Jefferson used this to argue against the constitutionality of the national bank.

Washington’s Farewell Address

In his 1796 farewell message, Washington warned against two major threats to the republic: The formation of political factions or parties, which could lead to national disunity. Permanent foreign alliances, advising the nation to remain neutral and independent.

John Adams

Second President of the United States (1797-1801) and a Federalist. His presidency was defined by foreign policy challenges and the passage of controversial legislation (XYZ Affairs, most important moment was when he left and Democratic-Republican Thomas Jefferson replaced him in office, a peaceful switch of power among different parties).

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident in 1797–1798 involving France. French agents (referred to as X, Y, and Z) demanded a bribe from American diplomats to negotiate an end to French attacks on U.S. shipping. The event led to public outrage in the U.S., fueling anti-French sentiment and prompting an undeclared naval war known as the Quasi-War.

Alien and Sedition Acts 1798

Passed by the Federalist-controlled Congress during the Adams administration. The Alien Acts allowed the president to deport foreigners considered "dangerous". The Sedition Act criminalized making false or malicious statements about the government, effectively silencing Democratic-Republican opposition. These acts sparked widespread controversy over civil liberties.

Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions 1798

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts. The resolutions argued that states had the right to "nullify" (declare void) federal laws they deemed unconstitutional. They were a key moment in the states' rights debate and a political challenge to Federalist power.

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a principal author of the Declaration of Independence, known for his strong advocacy of individual liberties and democratic principles. His beliefs shaped the foundation of American democracy and influenced the nation’s early development through his presidency and political philosophies. Jefferson's actions as president reflected his belief in limiting federal power while promoting states' rights. He implemented policies that reduced the federal budget, cut taxes, and aimed to shrink the military. However, his approval of the Louisiana Purchase highlighted a contradiction; while he favored a strict interpretation of the Constitution, he expanded presidential authority through this significant land acquisition. This duality illustrates the ongoing tension between federalism and states' rights in American politics.

Report on Public Credit 1790

Called for the federal government to assume the debts of the states and fund the national debt by offering interest, with the goal of establishing the nation's creditworthiness.

Report on a National Bank, 1790:

Proposed creating a national bank to hold government funds, issue currency, and provide loans. This provoked major constitutional debate between Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson.

Report on Manufactures, 1791

Advocated for protective tariffs to encourage the growth of American industries. Hamilton's plan was controversial and helped spark the division between the first two political parties.