Key Events and Policies during the Presidencies of George Washington and John Adams

A set of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key events and policies during the presidencies of George Washington and John Adams.

George Washington

First President of the United States, served eight years, political party: Federalists.

Judiciary Act of 1789

A landmark law that established the structure of the federal court system and defined its jurisdiction.

A- Grade

Awarded to Washington for strengthening federal authority and creating essential judiciary offices.

American Response to the French Revolution

Americans celebrated the revolution but remained neutral; Washington's neutrality challenged by Genêt.

B- Grade

Given to Washington for his attempts to maintain neutrality during the French Revolution but facing challenges.

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Legislation that provided a method for admitting new states and banned slavery in the Northwest Territory.

B+ Grade

Reflects the ordinance's foundational contributions and significant shortcomings regarding Native American treatment.

Whiskey Rebellion

A violent protest against the whiskey tax in 1794, showing the federal government’s authority.

A- Grade

Awarded for Washington's successful handling of the rebellion, underscoring federal law enforcement.

Battle of Fallen Timbers

A decisive battle in 1794 where U.S. forces defeated Native American tribes, ending the Northwest Indian War.

A Grade

Given for General Wayne's successful military campaign with minimal casualties.

Alien Acts

Federal laws that increased the duration for immigrants to qualify for U.S. citizenship.

F Grade

Given for the Alien Acts failing to achieve their political goals regarding immigration.

Jay’s Treaty

A treaty that resolved issues from the Revolutionary War and improved trade relations with Britain.

C+ Grade

Recognition of modest economic benefits achieved while avoiding war, despite being controversial.

Pinckney’s Treaty

A treaty with Spain that granted Americans navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

A+ Grade

Awarded for solving territorial disputes and significantly benefiting American trade and expansion.

Washington’s Farewell Address

A speech warning against political parties and promoting national unity.

A- Grade

Reflects the address's foresight despite failing to prevent political party rise.

Overall Grade for Washington

A- reflecting his foundational work in establishing a stable government for the U.S.

John Adams

Second President of the United States, served four years, political party: Federalist.

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident with France that escalated tensions and fueled partisanship in America.

D Grade

Given due to the adverse political consequences stemming from the XYZ Affair.

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws limiting free speech and criticizing the government, leading to widespread backlash.

C+ Grade

Reflects Adams’ struggle with unpopular laws that divided the nation.

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions

Political statements that asserted states' rights to nullify federal laws deemed unconstitutional.

C+ Grade

Focused on dangerous theories of nullification that were largely rejected by other states.

Election of 1800

A pivotal election characterized by a tie that led to a peaceful transfer of power.

B- Grade

Awarded for resolving a constitutional crisis peacefully despite significant campaign issues.

Judiciary Act of 1801

A last-minute act by Adams that expanded the judiciary and created 'midnight judges'.

C- Grade

Reflects the act's partisan motivations and quick repeal by the incoming Democratic-Republicans.

Overall Grade for Adams

C+, acknowledging both successes and deep political conflicts during his administration.