4.2 The Rise of Political Parties and the Era of Jefferson

Democratic-Republicans Take Power

Jefferson's 1800 election ('Revolution of 1800') marked the first peaceful transfer of power between rival parties. Democratic-Republicans favored a strict reading of the Constitution, limited federal power, agrarianism, and states' rights, contrasting with Federalist support for a strong central government and commerce/manufacturing.

Judicial Power and Expansion

Marbury v. Madison (1803) established judicial review, letting courts strike down unconstitutional laws, strengthening federal judiciary power even under a Democratic-Republican presidency. The Louisiana Purchase (1803) doubled U.S. territory, though it stretched Jefferson's strict-constructionist principles, showing pragmatic governance once in office.

Foreign Policy Struggles

Ongoing conflict with Britain and France over neutral trading rights led to the Embargo Act (1807), which hurt the American economy more than Europe. Tensions over impressment and British support for Native Americans contributed to the War of 1812, testing American nationalism and exposing continued Federalist-Republican divisions (e.g., Hartford Convention).

Key terms

Revolution of 1800

Jefferson's election, marking the first peaceful transfer of power between opposing political parties in U.S. history.

Marbury v. Madison

1803 Supreme Court case establishing judicial review, the power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

Louisiana Purchase

1803 acquisition of French territory that doubled U.S. size; challenged Jefferson's strict constructionist views.

Embargo Act (1807)

Law banning trade with foreign nations to protect neutral rights; damaged the U.S. economy more than intended targets.

War of 1812

Conflict with Britain sparked by impressment and support for Native American resistance; tested American nationalism and unity.

Try an AP-style question

Marbury v. Madison (1803) established…

1. the two-party system
2. states' rights to nullify
3. the national bank
4. judicial review