8. Growing Pains: The New Republic, 1790–1820
Summary and Review
The period from 1790 to 1820 saw the emergence of political parties in the U.S., with Federalists advocating for a strong central government and Democratic-Republicans promoting limited government. Key events included the passage of the Bill of Rights, Hamilton's financial programs, the impact of the French Revolution, the Whiskey Rebellion, and the War of 1812. The Louisiana Purchase significantly expanded U.S. territory, while partisan conflicts intensified, culminating in the election of Thomas Jefferson and the decline of Federalist influence.