Shaping a New Republic
Daniel Miller
7 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers the Early Republic (1789-1800), focusing on Washington's and Adams' presidencies. Key topics include: Washington's cabinet, the Bill of Rights, the Judiciary Act of 1789, Hamilton's Financial Plan, the Whiskey Rebellion, Washington's foreign policy (including the Proclamation of Neutrality and Jay's Treaty), the French Revolution's impact, the Alien and Sedition Acts, and the rise of political parties (Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans). The guide also includes practice questions and exam tips.
#AP US History: The Early Republic (1789-1800) 🚀
Hey there, future AP US History master! Let's get you prepped and feeling good for your exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, packed with everything you need to know, minus the fluff. Let's dive in!
#The Dawn of a Nation: Washington's Presidency (1789-1797)
#Setting the Stage
- Unanimous Election: George Washington became the first President in 1789, and again in 1792. 🏆
- Cabinet Creation: Washington established a cabinet, including:
- Thomas Jefferson (Secretary of State)
- Alexander Hamilton (Secretary of the Treasury)
- Bill of Rights (1791): The first ten amendments to the Constitution, drafted by James Madison, guaranteeing individual liberties. 📜
- Initially 12 proposed, 10 ratified.
- Judiciary Act of 1789: Established the Supreme Court's structure and lower federal courts. ⚖️
The creation of the Bill of Rights was crucial for Anti-Federalists, who demanded these protections of individual liberties before agreeing to ratify the Constitution.
#Hamilton's Financial Plan
Alexander Hamilton, the Treasury Secretary, aimed to stabilize the US economy. The nation faced significant debt and inflation.
- Hamilton's Goals:
- Strengthen the federal government.
- Bind the nation together.
- Key Proposals:
- Assumption of State Debts: The federal government would take on remaining state debts. 💰
- Funding at Full Face Value: US would pay back foreign and domestic debts at their full value.
- High Tariffs: Taxes on imported goods to protect US industries. 🛡️
- National Bank: A bank for government funds and a stable currency. 🏦
- Congress's Response: Only the state debt assumption was accepted initially. 😕
#Understanding Tariffs
- Definition: Taxes on imported goods.
- Purpose:
- Generate government revenue (before income taxes).
- Protect domestic industries by making imports more expensive. 📈
Think of tariffs as a 'shield' for US industries, prote...
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