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The Constitutional Convention
The Constitutional Convention meets in Philadelphia to establish the Constitution to improve the government. -
Washington Becomes President
George Washington becomes president. Congress holds its first meeting in New York. -
Federalist Party Emerges
The Federalist Party formed around Alexander Hamilton while Washington was president. Federalist were prominently rich and had supported the Constitution. They favored a strong central government. -
Anti-Federalist Party
The Anti-Federalist centered around Thomas Jefferson. They believed in limiting the national government and protecting the common people. -
Ratification of the Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights becomes a part of the Constitution. -
Capital Moved
The US Capital is moved to D.C. -
Jefferson Elected President
Jefferson's election marked the beginning of Democratic reign until the Civil War. -
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Era of Democrats
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Marbury v. Madison
The Supreme Court can declare a law unconstitutional because of Marbury v. Madison. -
Andrew Jackson's Democratic Party
Jackson's party included farmers, debtors, frontier pioneers, and slaveholders. -
Republican Party is Born
Whigs and antislavery Democrats are swayed by the introduction of the new Republican Party. In the early years, they favored abolishing slavery. -
Abraham Lincoln is Elected President
Lincoln's presidency marks the beginning of the 75 year long reign of the Republican Party. -
Period: to
Era of Republicans
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Depression
The depression leads to a change in government. Led by FDR, the Democratic Party regains control of the government. -
Period: to
Era of Democrats
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Modern Republicans
(GOP) The modern Republican Party favors a government that lends citizens more freedom and they also like to focus on economic growth and job security. -
Modern Democrats
Democrats like a strong federal government and support minority and women’s rights. They're also concerned with environmental protection and progressive reforms. -
Period: to
Era of Divided Government
Starting in 1968, no one party consistently holds presidency and the opposing party usually controls Congress.