Presidency Flashcards
Judiciary Act of 1789
Established the federal court system, including the Supreme Court, district courts, and circuit courts. Gave the Supreme Court power to settle disputes between states
Free Enterprise
An economic system where businesses operate with little government interference, allowing competition, private ownership, and supply-and-demand to drive the economy
Hamilton’s Three-Point Plan
Alexander Hamilton’s plan to fix the U.S. economy:
* Assume state debts to establish national credit
* Create a national bank for financial stability
* Use tariffs to support American industries
Neutrality Proclamation (1793)
Declared that the U.S. would not take sides in conflicts between European nations, especially between Britain and France. Established Washington’s foreign policy of neutrality
Washington’s Cabinet
Advisors who helped Washington govern:
* Alexander Hamilton (Treasury) – Managed the economy
* Thomas Jefferson (State) – Handled foreign affairs
* Henry Knox (War) – Led the military
* Edmund Randolph (Attorney General) – Advised on legal matters
Whiskey Rebellion (1794)
Farmers rebelled against a tax on whiskey. Washington sent militia to stop the revolt, proving that the new government could enforce its laws
Federalist Party
Led by Hamilton, supported:
* Strong federal government
* Industry & trade
* Loose interpretation of the Constitution
* Close ties with Britain
Democratic-Republican Party
Led by Jefferson & Madison, supported:
* Strong state governments
* Agriculture & rural life
* Strict interpretation of the Constitution
* Close ties with France
XYZ Affair (1797-1798)
French officials (XYZ) demanded bribes from U.S. diplomats before negotiations. Led to anti-French sentiment and an undeclared naval war (Quasi-War) (Under John Adams)
Alien & Sedition Acts (1798)
Federalist laws that:
* Made it harder for immigrants to become citizens
* Allowed the president to deport foreigners
* Punished critics of the government, violating free speech
