The new nation: George Washington's presidency

Welcome to Expansion, Industrialization, and Reform Movements! In this lesson, we'll explore the new nation: george washington's presidency. Understanding history and society helps us become informed citizens.

The early American republic (1789–1850) established the nation's political foundations. George Washington's presidency (1789–97) set crucial precedents: Cabinet system, two-term tradition, Farewell Address warning against foreign entanglements and political factions. Political parties emerged despite warnings: Federalists (Hamilton—strong central government) vs. Democratic-Republicans (Jefferson—states' rights). The Louisiana Purchase (1803): Napoleon sold the territory to fund European wars; Jefferson doubled the nation's size for $15 million. Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–06) mapped the continent. War of 1812: conflict with Britain over impressment and trade; ended in stalemate but boosted American nationalism. Monroe Doctrine (1823): declared Western Hemisphere off-limits to future European colonization. The Constitutional debates revealed the nation's deepest tensions: representation (Great Compromise—bicameral Congress), slavery (Three-Fifths Compromise), and the balance between federal and state power (the defining tension of American political history).

As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.

Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.