Recording-2025-03-15T09:56:13.354Z

Overview of the Washington Administration

• The Washington administration is part of the early republic period, coinciding with the Adams administration.

• This period includes the implementation of the U.S. Constitution and addresses early governmental crises.

Implementation of the Constitution

• The Constitution was ratified, allowing for the first coordinated elections across the 13 states in fall 1788.

• Concerns existed about the legitimacy of these elections, marking a significant moment in U.S. history.

Political Rivals

• The main political factions were the Federalists (supporters of the Constitution, favoring a strong central government) and the Anti-Federalists (opposing the Constitution, advocating for state power).

• These factions represent the first political parties in the U.S.

• Federalists won a majority in Congress following the elections, leading to the first presidential election.

First Presidential Election

• Conducted on February 9, 1789, the election was unique as it was not based on direct popular votes but rather the Electoral College.

• George Washington, a figure with great public support, was elected unanimously as the first president.

• States Carolina, New York, and Rhode Island did not participate as they had yet to ratify the Constitution.

• Washington’s inauguration took place in New York, then the temporary capital.

Challenges of the Washington Administration

• Bill of Rights: One of the early priorities was to address states' calls for a clear outline of citizen rights.

  • James Madison led efforts to craft the first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, addressing various citizen freedoms.

• Judiciary Act of 1789: This act established a federal court system beneath the Supreme Court to address legal grievances at the state level.

Financial Issues and Hamilton’s Plan

• The United States inherited a national debt totaling about $54 million with some states also in debt.

• Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury, prepared reports advocating for:

  • Paying off debt via sales of stocks, bonds, and western lands

  • Implementation of tariffs to generate revenue.

• Controversially, Hamilton proposed a perpetual debt to unite wealthy Americans with the federal government.

Controversial National Bank

• Hamilton proposed a national bank, claiming it would raise $10 million without costing American taxpayers directly.

• The idea faced pushback over perceived elitism and constitutionality.

• Despite opposition (including from Jefferson and Madison), Congress approved the Bank of the United States.

Partisanship and Political Development

• Growing partisanship characterized the late 18th century.

  • Federalists became seen as elitist due to Hamilton’s fiscal policies, while Anti-Federalists rebranded as Democratic-Republicans, supporting states' rights and strict constitutional interpretations.

• Washington remained popular and above the fray of political conflict.

Whiskey Rebellion (1794)

• The rebellion stemmed from discontent over Hamilton’s whiskey excise tax, led largely by Pennsylvania farmers.

• Washington responded to suppress the rebellion, demonstrating the federal government's authority under the new Constitution.

Territorial Expansion and Native American Treaties

• The U.S. expanded westward into territories like Kentucky and Tennessee, countering Spanish influence.

• Washington negotiated treaties with Native tribes, such as the Treaty of New York with the Creek Indians, to maintain peace and counterbalance Spanish power.

Slavery Context

• While northern states began abolishing slavery, inequality persisted for free black individuals, who faced segregation and disenfranchisement.

• The Fugitive Slave Law of 1793 enforced strict penalties for escaped slaves, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding slavery.

• The invention of the cotton gin increased demand for slave labor in the South, leading to a complex societal response.

International Factors in Washington’s Presidency

• The French Revolution significantly affected U.S. foreign policy; initially met with support, it later raised concerns due to its radical turn.

• Washington issued a Proclamation of Neutrality, avoiding involvement in international conflicts.

• U.S. relations with Spain and Britain were critical; treaties such as Pinckney's Treaty improved trade while Jay's Treaty sought to maintain peace amid rising tensions.

Washington's Legacy

• Washington's presidency established the foundation of the U.S. government, emphasizing the importance of neutrality in foreign affairs, expanded federal authority, and the peaceful transfer of power.

• He voluntarily chosen not to seek a third term, establishing a precedent for future presidents and demonstrating the importance of democratic processes.