AIM: WHY WAS GEORGE WASHINGTON’S PRESIDENCY IMPORTANT? DO NOW: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR PEOPLE THAT YOU KNOW? (FAMILY, FRIENDS, SIBLINGS, ETC.)

OBJECTIVES To learn about the examples set by Washington. To understand why George Washington was so important to American Hist.

SETTING THE STAGE… In 1789, the leaders of the new federal government of the United States gathered in New York City. Besides ideals, they had very little to guide them. The newly ratified Constitution was clear on some points but vague on others. It was also entirely untested. Those who had written the Constitution, along with the new President, George Washington, knew full well that a good start would secure the daring experiment in republican union. However, they also realized that early mistakes could doom it.

ELECTING A PRESIDENT In 1789 the Electoral College unanimously elected George Washington. George Washington became the First President. The Vice President was John Adams.

SETTING UP THE JUDICIARY… The Constitution called for a Supreme Court and several smaller ones. Madison helped pass the Judiciary Act of This act established a system of courts. There were to be 13 federal courts.

THE FIRST PRESIDENT SETS PRECEDENTS Precedent: An example for others to follow. Washington created a Cabinet or team of advisors to help him. He served two, four year terms. Every other President until 1940 would follow this example.

THE WHISKEY REBELLION Western Pennsylvania, taxes on Whiskey lead to revolt. Under Hamilton’s command, 12,000 militiamen stopped the rebellion. Result: The new US Government was capable of protecting itself and carrying out laws!!!

A TWO PARTY SYSTEM EMERGES Whiskey Rebellion sparked controversy. Two major political parties formed. Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans

WASHINGTON’S FAREWELL…. Stay away from permanent foreign alliances. Don’t get involved in European conflicts. Beware of Political Parties. Loyalty to the New United States, not to the section of that country you were from.

KEY QUESTIONS 1.Who helped Washington establish the Judicial Branch? 2.What did the Judiciary Act of 1789 state? 3.What precedents did Washington set for those who came after him? 4.Why was the Whiskey Rebellion a significant historic event? 5. Why did a two-party political system emerge? What were the parties? 6.Compare and Contrast: Articles of Confederation/Shays Rebellion and the United States Constitution/Whiskey Rebellion.