Explores the major domestic and foreign policy challenges of George Washington's administration and the precedents he established for the presidency, from creating a cabinet to issuing a farewell address.
What two main warnings did Washington give in his Farewell Address in \(1796\)?
He warned against the dangers of permanent foreign alliances and the divisive nature of political parties ('factions').
What significant precedent did George Washington establish regarding his advisors?
He created the first presidential Cabinet, a group of advisors heading the executive departments (State, Treasury, War). Although not mentioned in the Constitution, every president since has relied on a cabinet.
What did the Judiciary Act of \(1789\) establish?
This act organized the federal legal system. It created the Supreme Court with a Chief Justice and five associate justices, established federal district and circuit courts, and created the office of the Attorney General.
What were the three main parts of Alexander Hamilton's financial plan?
1. Assumption of state debts by the federal government.
2. Creation of a Bank of the United States (BUS).
3. A series of excise taxes (notably on whiskey) and protective tariffs to raise revenue and promote manufacturing.
What compromise was reached to pass Hamilton's plan for the federal assumption of state debts?
In the 'Compromise of 1790,' Jefferson and Madison agreed to support the assumption plan in exchange for Hamilton's support in locating the new national capital on the Potomac River, which became Washington, D.C.
What was the constitutional argument against Hamilton's proposal for a national bank?
Opponents like Thomas Jefferson argued for a 'strict construction' of the Constitution. Since the Constitution did not explicitly grant Congress the power to create a bank, they argued it was unconstitutional.
How did Hamilton defend the constitutionality of the Bank of the United States?
Hamilton argued for a 'loose construction' based on the 'Necessary and Proper' (or 'Elastic') Clause. He contended that the bank was a necessary means to carry out the government's enumerated powers of collecting taxes and regulating trade.
What was the Whiskey Rebellion of \(1794\), and what precedent did Washington's response establish?
An uprising of western Pennsylvania farmers protesting an excise tax on whiskey. Washington responded by leading a militia of \(13,000\) men to suppress the rebellion, demonstrating the new federal government's power and willingness to enforce its laws.
What was the purpose of Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality in \(1793\)?
In response to the outbreak of war between revolutionary France and Great Britain, Washington declared that the United States would remain neutral and impartial, warning American citizens to avoid aiding either side. This set a precedent for American foreign policy for decades.
What were the major terms and consequences of Jay's Treaty (1794) with Great Britain?
The treaty got Britain to agree to evacuate its forts on U.S. soil, but it failed to address the key issue of British impressment of American sailors. It was deeply unpopular, especially with Jeffersonians, but it did prevent war with Britain.
What was achieved by Pinckney's Treaty (1795) with Spain?
A major diplomatic success, this treaty resolved boundary disputes with Spain and, most importantly, granted the United States navigation rights on the Mississippi River and the right of deposit (to store goods) in New Orleans.
What precedent did Washington set by leaving office after his second term?
He established the precedent of a two-term limit for presidents, which was followed by every president until Franklin D. Roosevelt and was later formalized by the \(22nd\) Amendment.
