Overview of Washington's Administration and Early U.S. Government

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from Washington's administration and the early formation of the United States government.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, which created a weak national government.

Constitution

The supreme law of the United States, outlining the national framework of government.

Alexander Hamilton

The first Secretary of the Treasury who proposed the establishment of a national bank and assumed state debts.

National Bank

A proposed bank by Alexander Hamilton aimed at stabilizing the U.S. economy and managing debts.

Whiskey Rebellion

A 1794 uprising of farmers protesting a tax on whiskey that was eventually suppressed by federal forces.

Federalist Party

A political party that advocated for a strong national government and supported Hamilton's policies.

Democratic-Republicans

A political party led by Thomas Jefferson that favored states' rights and agricultural interests.

Jay's Treaty

A 1794 agreement between the U.S. and Great Britain that sought to resolve issues remaining since the American Revolutionary War.

Pinckney's Treaty

A 1795 agreement with Spain that granted the U.S. the right to navigate the Mississippi River and access New Orleans.

Impressment

The practice of forcing American sailors into the British navy, contributing to tensions between the U.S. and Britain.

Edmund Genet

A French diplomat who tried to recruit Americans to support France during the French Revolutionary Wars.

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws passed in 1798 that aimed to suppress dissent and limit the rights of immigrants.

Election of 1796

The first contested presidential election in the U.S., resulting in John Adams' presidency.

Electoral College

The body that elects the President and Vice President of the United States, based on the popular vote in each state.

Louisiana Purchase

The acquisition of the Louisiana territory from France in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States.