And it all goes down the crapper . . . Washington Retires And it all goes down the crapper . . . In 1796, Washington issued his farewell address.

Huh?! What are you saying Mr. President? “The period for a new election of a citizen to administer the executive government of the United States being not far distant, and the time actually arrived when your thoughts must be employed in designating the person who is to be clothed with that important trust, it appears to me proper, especially as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice, that I should now apprise you of the resolution I have formed, to decline being considered among the number of those out of whom a choice is to be made.”

Washington bids farewell Despite calls for him to run for a third term of office, Washington declined.

Huh?! What are you saying Mr. President? “I have already intimated to you the danger of parties in the state, with particular reference to the founding of them on geographical discriminations (differences)……. The alternate domination (ruling) of one faction (group) over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension (disagreement), which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism (ruling of someone).”

Washington’s Farewell Address Washington warned the nation to avoid : Creating political parties (too much unneeded tension) The first political parties would form soon after Washington retired

Huh?! What are you saying Mr. President? “The name American, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just Pride of Patriotism……….With slight shades of difference, you have the same religion, manners, habits, and political principles…… the Independence and liberty you possess are the work of joint counsels and joint efforts, of common dangers, sufferings, and successes.”

Washington’s Farewell Address Washington warned the nation to avoid : Nationalism (view the nation as a whole, instead of North/South)

Huh?! What are you saying Mr. President? “It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent (forever) alliances (partnerships) with any portion of the foreign world…. Harmony, liberal intercourse (trade) with all nations, are recommended by policy, humanity, and interest…. But even our commercial (trade) policy should hold an equal and impartial hand; neither seeking nor granting exclusive favors or preferences.

Washington’s Farewell Address Washington warned the nation to avoid : Permanent alliances (stay neutral in other nation’s business) The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (or NATO) is one of many alliances the US is a part of today

The First Political Parties The US has always had a two-party system. The first two political parties were known as the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans.

The Federalists Started by Alexander Hamilton and John Adams. The Federalists had four key beliefs.

1. A Strong National Government The national government should play and active role in the economy

2. Support a National Bank The national bank is vital to government power over the economy

3. Growth of Industry The national can only be strong if the manufacturing sector grows

4. Pro-British foreign policy The US should try to strengthen their relationship with Great Britain.

The Democratic-Republicans This party was created by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison They also had four core beliefs

1. Weak central government The national government should not interfere with the economy. “The government that governs best, governs least.” - TJ

2. No National Bank If it’s not in the Constitution, the government can’t do it. The National Bank is not in the Constitution.

3. Economy based on agriculture Farming was the foundation of America and the farmers should be supported

4. Pro-France Foreign policy The French were our allies, and they should be supported.

The Second President The Federalists won the next presidential election John Adams was elected as the second president. Thomas Jefferson was Vice President.

Friends become enemies Adams and Jefferson, once great friends, now argued over everything. Adams tried to keep the US neutral in a war between Britain and France.

The XYZ Affair The US sent agents to France to negotiate peace. The French tried to bribe the Americans This brought criticism of Adams from newpapers.

The Alien and Sedition Acts Angered by critics, Adams signed the law which made it difficult for immigrants to move to the US, and made it illegal to criticize the government. This unpopular law would be used to defeat Adams in the next election These Foreigners need to shut their TRAP!!!