Glossary

Alexander Hamilton

Appointed Treasury Secretary by Washington, Hamilton proposed a financial program that helped to establish a firm foundation for the finances of the federal government and for national economic growth.

Alien and Sedition Acts

The Federalists in Congress in 1798 tried to stifle political opposition and stamp out sympathy for France by passing four measures, known as the Alien and Sedition Acts. Republicans charged that these laws threatened fundamental liberties.

Jay's Treaty

John Jay negotiated this treaty between the United States and Great Britain. The treaty resolved few of the outstanding issues creating tension between the two nations. The first political party system emerged as a result of the debate over the treaty.

loose constructionism

In defending his proposal for a national bank, Hamilton first formulated the "loose constructionist" interpretation of the Constitution, which held that Congress had "implied powers" to do anything necessary and proper to carry out its constitutional functions.

Pinckney's Treaty

Also known as the Treaty of San Lorenzo, this treaty opened the Mississippi River to American trade and permitted Americans the privilege of exporting goods from New Orleans, which then belonged to Spain.

strict constructionism

Thomas Jefferson's opposition to the first national bank was based in part on a "strict constructionist" interpretation of the Constitution, which held that Congress had only those powers specifically given to it in the Constitution.

Whiskey Rebellion

Along with the Citizen Genet affair, the Whiskey Rebellion (1794) contributed greatly to the process of political polarization during the 1790s. The rebellion, caused by an excise tax on whiskey, was centered in western Pennsylvania and was quickly crushed by the federal government.

XYZ affair

French foreign minister Tallerand tried to bribe American commissioners who were seeking a negotiated settlement to disputes between France and the United States. This attempt, when made public, resulted in a quasiwar with France in 1798.

Top