John Adams: President #2 Refresher: What were the positives and negatives of Adam’s presidency?
When Washington left office he gave a famous farewell speech. He warned the country about two things: – The USA should mind its own business. Leave other countries alone! – Don’t form rival political parties! Washington’s Farewell Address
President Washington’s Cabinet Alexander Hamilton: – Secretary of Treasury – He deals with USA’s economy, banks, and businesses – He thinks the federal government should have more power. Thomas Jefferson: – Secretary of State – He’s supposed to deal with other countries – He thinks the states should have more power.
First Political Parties (p.7-8) Federalists Alexander Hamilton: – They think the federal government should have more power. Democratic-Republicans Thomas Jefferson: – They think the states should have more power.
Sedition Act: made it illegal to criticize the government when at war. Think: What rights does this violate? Alien Act: President can deport (kick out of USA) any troublesome foreigners. The Alien & Sedition Acts make Adams very unpopular…why? Alien & Sedition Acts
Kentucky & Virginia passed laws which said Alien & Sedition laws were unconstitutional Do the states have the power to declare laws unconstitutional? States claimed power to “nullify,” or erase, laws that went against the Constitution Kentucky & Virginia Resolutions
Laws passed while Adams was president Established Supreme Court Made it powerful Judiciary Acts
France and Britain went to war. The USA wanted to keep trading with both countries. France attacked U.S. ships heading to Britain Adams tries to avoid war with France and sends people to cut a deal. (continued) XYZ Affair
Three French officials known as “X, Y, & Z” demanded bribes for peace. Many in USA wanted war Adams avoided war with France Think: Could the USA win that war? XYZ Affair
Where do I fall on the Federalism Spectrum?