How the United States developed into a two-party system.

  • 1787-1788

    The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton and John Adams, advocate for a strong federal government and ratification of the new US Constitution. The Anti-Federalists, led by Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry, are concerned about excessive federal power and demand a Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties.
  • 1792-1824

    The Democratic-Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, oppose Federalist policies and advocate for a strict interpretation of the Constitution. Major issues include states' rights, limited government, and opposition to the National Bank.
  • 1828-1856

    The Jacksonian Democrats, led by Andrew Jackson, embrace a populist message and expand suffrage to include more white men. They also support Indian removal and westward expansion, while opposing a national bank and a strong federal government.
  • 1854-1860

    The Party of Lincoln, or Republicans, form in opposition to the expansion of slavery into new territories. They are also in favor of strong federal authority and a national bank.
  • 1932-1948

    The Roosevelt Democrats, led by Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocate for government intervention in the economy and social welfare programs to combat the Great Depression. They also support internationalism and US involvement in World War II.
  • 1964-1980

    Modern Republicans, led by Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan, emphasize conservative values such as individual liberty, free markets, and a strong military. They are opposed to big government, high taxes, and social welfare programs.
  • 1960s-present

    Modern Democrats, led by figures like John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama, advocate for civil rights, social justice, and government intervention in areas such as healthcare, education, and the environment. They also support international cooperation and multilateralism.