The Early Republic Summary

The Early Republic (1789-1817)

Overview

  • Period marked by active participation of founding fathers in government.

  • Linked to presidencies of Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison.

  • Key developments: industrialization in the northeast, cotton plantation expansion in the south, westward expansion, and the War of 1812.

Constitutional Convention

  • Convened in 1787 after the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

  • Bill of Rights included at the insistence of Anti-Federalists.

  • Ratification of Constitution established a three-branched government.

Presidency of George Washington

  • Unanimously elected and presided over the Constitutional Convention.

  • Established a cabinet and issued a Neutrality Proclamation.

  • Notable events: Farewell Address and suppression of the Whiskey Rebellion.

John Jay Treaty

  • Signed in 1794 to resolve issues post-independence (maritime rights, debts).

  • Unpopular, but maintained peace and U.S. neutrality.

  • Passed Senate with a narrow vote.

XYZ Affair

  • American peace delegation faced demands for bribes from French agents.

  • Influenced the Alien and Sedition Acts and heightened tensions with France.

Alien & Sedition Acts

  • Enacted in 1798 amid fears of war with France.

  • Increased citizenship residency requirement; allowed deportation and imprisonment of dissenters.

  • Targeted Democratic-Republicans and tested limits of free speech.

Barbary Pirates

  • Collection of North African states practicing piracy for tribute.

  • U.S. engaged in wars with Tripoli (1801-1805) and Algiers (1815-1816).

  • Established U.S. Navy and demonstrated federal military capability under the Constitution.

Marbury v. Madison

  • Established judicial review; the Court declared part of the Judiciary Act of 1789 unconstitutional.

  • Highlighted the Court's power to invalidate laws conflicting with the Constitution.

Louisiana Purchase

  • 1803 acquisition from France for $15 million, encompassing 828,000 sq mi.

  • Expanded U.S. territory significantly and increased presidential power.

Lewis and Clark Expedition

  • Expedition to explore the new territory acquired from the Louisiana Purchase.

  • Aimed at establishing U.S. sovereignty and assessing resources.

War of 1812

  • Conflict between the U.S. and UK, declared in June 1812.

  • Key causes: territorial expansion and British support of Native American opposition.

  • Treaty of Ghent signed in December 1814; official end in February 1815 after ratification.

  • Notable battle: Battle of New Orleans occurred after the treaty was signed, leading to a decisive American victory.