Notes

Outline

The History of the Two-Party Political System in the U.S. By Mark J. Brestle Brigantine North School

Political Debate Prior to 1787 Federalists vs. Antifederalists Antifederalists- were fearful of a strong central government (similar to a monarchy), favored states rights- wanted to amend the Articles of Confederation Federalists- felt the country needed a strong central government including an army and navy- supported the new Constitution

Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans  1792-1816 Federalists Alexander Hamilton Rule by the “best people” Powerful central government Pro-British supporting business Democ.-Republicans Thomas Jefferson Rule by informed masses Weak central gov., favored states rights Pro-France agriculture preferred

Era of “Good Feelings” 1816-1830 Only one political party-                                                       Democratic-Republicans Dem.-Repubilcans absorb many of the Federalists policies Wide-spread feeling of Nationalism (strong feeling of pride in one’s country) after the War of 1812

Rise of Jacksonian Democracy Begins in 1824  - Led by Andrew Jackson 1791 Vermont is the 1st state to allow voting rights for all white males By 1824 most states allow universal white male suffrage- voting right Common man becomes involved in government and politics Evolves into present day Democratic Party

Policies of Early Democratic Party Jackson adopts the spoils system - rewarding supporters with public office Common man votes and holds public office Against a powerful central government - favors states’ rights Against a central bank and high tariff  that would help and protect American business

The Birth of the Whigs- 1836 Whig party is formed basically from those opposed to Andrew Jackson Including: Henry Clay and John Calhoun, northern industrialists, southern states’ rights supporters, National Bank supporters Whig Presidents include: William H. Harrison (1840) and Zachary Taylor (1848) both former war heroes

Roots of the Republican Party-1854 Starts in the Mid-West as a reaction to the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854-a law that allows for slavery in the Western Territories Against slavery Includes: unhappy Whigs, Democrats and Free-Soilers and other foes of slavery 1st Republican President - Abraham Lincoln (1860) Strengthens during Civil War, Dems. secede

Policies of the Modern Republican Party Favors big business Lower taxes especially to rich to foster investment Fewer government services and support Strong defense

Modern Day Democratic Party Favors common people Believes that government should provide necessary services and support (paid for by taxes) Pro-labor

Election 2000- Democratic Candidate- Al Gore 1992-Present   Vice-President of the U.S 1984 elected U.S. Senate from Tenn. Harvard Univ. 52 years old Son of longtime Senator Al Gore Sr.

Election 2000 -Republican Candidate - George W. Bush Governor of Texas CEO of Gas & Oil Co. Partner in Texas Rangers (baseball) Attended Yale Univ. 54 years old Son of former President George H. Bush