“Father of the NAtion”
Grade: A
When the nascent nation struggled to form its own identity, it was necessary to have a leader to guide the country through the process. A strong leader in the Revolution, Washington was the most favorable and prepared man to become the first President of the U.S. Although he felt unprepared, Washington coordinated and strengthened the federal government well and cautiously appointed officials that would be of best assistance. Washington believed in a unified nation and established principles that the nation would abide by for years. His eloquence in such an immediate position, earns the man an A.
Events:
Washington delivered his Inaugural Address where he humbly refused a salary. …show more content…
Democrat-Republicans amongst many Americans strongly opposed the Treaty, believing it opposed American interest, but it proved well by avoiding war.
Tennessee officially becomes the 16th state.
Washington delivers his Farewell Address. In it, he advises the nation to stay out of foreign alliances and avoid the formation of political party.
2. John Adams (1797-1801) “Sir John Adams” Grade: F Unlike Washington, Adams was not unanimously praised by the public. Albeit loyal to his country and fighting strong in the Revolutionary War, he was no legend like General Washington. Adams won the election of 1797, from then on the legacy of Washington haunted the nation. Adams had great expectations yet received much opposition from Americans. Under his administration, he put the nation in foreign countries business and passed controversial and unconstitutional acts. He also led an undeclared war with France (eventually gaining peace). Unfortunately, he did not succeed in continuing the legend of Washington and gaining much public support, …show more content…
Its constitutionality was questioned.
In 1803, the Marshall Court decided upon the ruling of Marbury v. Madison. John Marshall, a strong proponent of federal government, instills the idea of Judicial Review. Judicial Review allowed the judicial branch to declare a law unconstitutional. It ruled out the Judiciary Act of 1789.
American and French representatives agree to sign the Louisiana Purchase Treaty. The U.S. gains land from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains, this doubles the size of the nation and contradicts Jefferson’s “strict” interpretation of the Constitution.
Destined to find new lands to explore, Captain Meriwether Lewis and Captain William Clark begin their expedition from Pittsburgh. Jefferson supports the expedition as a fulfillment of American curiosity and political, economic security.
In a further attempt to limit Federalist power, Jefferson aims to impeach Federalist judge. A prominent victim of his was John Pickering from New Hampshire, a violent alcoholic who was seen guilty in the eyes of the House and Senate and officially impeached in