Washington

First President

George Washington (1789-1797)

The First Presidential Election

Each elector could cast 2 votes; the most votes won the presidency and the second most became Vice President.

George Washington's Cabinet

Washington's top advisers, established in 1789, included Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State and Alexander Hamilton as Secretary of the Treasury.

Federalists

A political party led by Alexander Hamilton and John Adams that wanted a stronger national government and supported manufacturing.

Democratic-Republicans

A political party led by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison that supported a weaker national government and the interests of farmers.

Alexander Hamilton's Economic Plan

Included the federal government assuming state debts from the Revolutionary War and paying war bonds at full value.

Bank of the United States

Created by Hamilton to manage debts and issue a national currency, opposed by Southerners who feared Northern control.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but suggested by the Necessary and Proper Clause in Article 1, Section 8.

Strict Construction

The interpretation of the Constitution that assumes the federal government has limited powers only as stated.

Loose Construction

The interpretation of the Constitution that assumes the federal government has more powers unless explicitly prohibited.

Whiskey Rebellion

A reaction of Western farmers against a federal tax on whiskey, leading Washington to send troops to quell the rebellion.

Jay's Treaty

A 1794 treaty that kept the US out of war with Great Britain and improved trade relations, despite British aggression.

Pinckney's Treaty

A 1795 treaty that granted the US navigation rights on the Mississippi River and access to New Orleans.

Battle of Fallen Timbers

A 1794 battle where General Wayne's forces defeated Native American confederations led by Little Turtle, leading to the Treaty of Greenville.

Treaty of Greenville

A 1795 treaty where Native Americans ceded Southern Ohio and parts of Indiana for payment, securing US control over those territories.

Precedent

An example set by Washington's decision to step down after two terms, followed by subsequent presidents.