Why was republicanism pursued after the War of Independence?

1. Republicanism involved the idea of public good or the good of the whole, deemed by Thomas Paine. Elected representatives, elements of democracy.

2. Reasons why America was suited to republicanism:

   • Colonial assemblies had power and most white men could vote.

   • Colonial politics became even more democratic by the 1770s. Idea of consent, Jon Locke, Thomas Paine etc.

   • Many artisans and small merchants had helped to spread political consciousness of Americans under the Sons of Liberty.

   • Committees of Safety brought many new men into politics in 1774-75.

3. The King wanted people to worship them. They feel that a King should be a leader rather than a God.

Elitism V Democrats

Elitists - believed in liberty, but wanted to maintain order and feared too much democracy.

• Wide governing powers

• Franchise limited to property owners

• Voting - only occasionally

• High property qualifications for property holders

• Two political houses (bicameral) - one for people and one for the elite

Democrats - often from more poorer backgrounds, wanted complete equality and freedom from oppression.

• Most people should be able to vote - except for women and slaves

• Weaker executive

• Frequent elections

• Low/ no property qualifications for holding office

• One political house