Washington’s Presidency, Americas first political parties, andWashington’s farewell address study guide

Precedents

Actions or decisions that serve as an example for future presidents to follow

Cabinet

A group of advisors chosen by the president to help lead executive departments

Judiciary Act of 1789

A law passed by Congress that set up the federal court system and supreme court

Whiskey Rebellion

A 1794 protest by farmers against a tax on liquor that was quickly put down by Washington

Neutrality Proclamation

Washington’s official statement that the United States would not take sides in wars between European countries

Jay’s Treaty

A 1794 agreement with Britain meant to avoid war

Pinckney’s Treaty

A 1795 agreement with Spain that settled border disputes and opened the Mississippi River to American trade

Federalist Party

A political party led by Alexander Hamilton that favored a strong central government

Democratic-Republican Party

A political party led by Thomas Jefferson that favored strong state governments

Strict Construction

A way of interpreting the Constitution that allows the federal government to take only actions that the Constitution specifically says it can take

Loose Construction

A way of interpreting the Constitution that allows the federal government to take actions that the Constitution does not specifically forbid

National Bank

A powerful institution proposed by Alexander Hamilton to hold government funds

Farewell Address

A final speech or letter written by Washington to the nation as he left office

Political Factions

Organized political groups or parties that Washington warned would divide the country and destroy national unity

Permanent Alliances

Long-term foreign partnerships or treaties that Washington warned the nation to avoid to keep from being dragged into foreign wars