The Presidency of George Washington

Study Notes

Washington was unanimously elected the first president in 1789.
He played a crucial role in shaping the new nation and setting precedents for future leaders.
Key domestic issues included establishing the Judiciary Act of 1789, creating executive departments (Treasury, State, War, Justice), and forming the first cabinet.
Washington's leadership was essential in establishing a strong federal government.

Hamilton believed a strong central government was vital for national order and economic prosperity.
His vision emphasized industrial development and a strong economy.
Hamilton advocated for a loose interpretation of the Constitution to allow for flexibility in addressing national needs.
In contrast, Jefferson favored a limited federal government and prioritized agricultural interests.
Jefferson advocated for a strict interpretation of the Constitution to protect states' rights.
Their differing philosophies led to the formation of the first political parties in the U.S. (Federalists and Democratic-Republicans).

In 1789, Hamilton proposed a financial plan to address the nation's financial woes following the Revolutionary War.
This involved funding and assumption of state debts and creating a national bank.
These measures aimed to stabilize the economy and build national credibility.
The plan was controversial, especially the national bank, sparking a debate over the balance of power between the federal government and state governments.

The whiskey tax of 1791, part of Hamilton's financial plan, sparked discontent among western farmers in Pennsylvania.
The Whiskey Rebellion, an uprising against the tax, demonstrated the strength of the new federal government under Washington.
Washington's response, mobilizing troops to quell the rebellion, reinforced the authority of the federal government.

In 1796, Washington delivered a Farewell Address.
This address cautioned against the formation of political factions and entangling alliances with foreign powers.
It emphasized the importance of national unity and urged Americans to avoid internal divisions that could jeopardize the nation's future.
Washington warned against excessive partisanship, encouraging Americans to focus on their shared identity.

John Adams, a Federalist, became the second president of the U.S.
His presidency faced challenges from political opposition and foreign policy crises.
The XYZ Affair, involving French attempts to extort bribes from U.S. diplomats, strained relations between the two nations.
The Alien and Sedition Acts, aimed at limiting dissent and encouraging loyalty to the government, were controversial and sparked opposition.
The election of 1800 marked a significant shift in power from the Federalists to the Democratic-Republicans.