Question

The Federalist Era is the period of time between the ratification of the Constitution and Jefferson's inauguration as president. During this time, the new nation struggled to find firm footing. What were the achievements of the Federalist Era? What were its failings? Write an essay answering both questions.

Answer 1

The achievement of the Federalist Era would be the following: Ratification of Constitution, Washington's willingness to surrender power at the end of two terms and worked out pressing economic and foreign relations problems. Their failure are the following: Divisive political parties, Whiskey Rebellion and also the Large National Debts.

Answer 2

Answer:

The Federalist Era lasted from 1789 to 1801, when the Federalist Party took power and shaped American politics. This era saw the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and the growth of a strong centralized government. The period also was characterized by foreign conflicts with France and England, they also faced internal opposition from the rival Democratic-Republicans.

The compelling force behind the Federalist Party during Washington’s presidency was Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton devised a complex, multifaceted program to achieve his vision of a strong centralized government and diverse economy. One of his policies was the assumption of each state’s debts from the Revolutionary War. “A national debt,” Hamilton concluded, “will be to us a national blessing… powerful cement to our union.” He also proposed a novel system of taxes and tariffs to pay for the debt and a Bank of the United States to handle the finances and centralize the fiscal resources of the federal government. Hamilton also designed policies that encouraged manufacturing and commerce, leading to the growth of a wealthy, urban merchant class.

To get support for his program, Hamilton led a coalition leaded by prominent Northeastern businessmen and financiers. This coalition grew into the Federalist Party to express support for a strong central government and to legitimize their claims that they were the true champions of the Constitution. The Federalist-dominated Congress and President Washington approved Hamilton’s policies, which interpreted the powers of the federal government under the “necessary and proper” clause of the Constitution.