During the 1800 presidential election, Adams and Jefferson were opposing candidates. Federalist accused Jefferson of being a radical, while republicans accused Adams of being dictator seeking to be king. Adams and Jefferson both displayed dignity throughout the election, it was their supports on the other hand, that made this election one of the ugliest in American history. The election was close, Jefferson was elected. The constitution, however, played a crucial role in this election each elector had to vote by ballot for two persons (Brinkley,178) No candidates had the majority vote, the constitution states that the house of representatives had to choose between the two candidates when no majority. The new congress was not to convene until
