5.3 John Adams's Presidency

What words or phrases did Jefferson use to express his unhappiness with the Alien and Sedition Acts?

"Are so against the Constitution as to show they mean to pay no repect to it."

What events led to the decline of the federalist party?

Adams lost support because he didn't go to war with France, unpopular Alien and Sedition Acts, and party leader, Hamilton, was killed in a duel with Aaron Burr.

What happened as soon as Adams took office?

Americans called for war.

Why were many americans outraged and insulted when they heard about the XYZ Affair and how France handled the attempted peace talks?

Americans were outraged and insulted because they did not want to hand money like they were a charity.

What were the key parts of the Sedition Acts?

Citizens could be fined or jailed if they critized the government or its officials.

How were the results of the election a problem?

Democratic-Republicans won popular vote, in electoral college Jefferson and Burr tied, and house of representatives is a tie breaker.

Who were the parties candidates for president in 1800?

Federalists: John Adams, Charles Pinckney. Democratic-Republicans: Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr.

Why did Adams actions and threat of war with France cause a split in the Federalist party?

Many Federalists disagreed with Adams's decision to avoid war with France.

Why should states not be able to nullify a law passed by the federal government?

Many problems arised.

Who won the election of 1800?

President: Thomas Jefferson. Vice President: Aaron Burr.

What freedoms of the Bill of Rights were threatened by the Alien and Sedition Acts?

Printing criticism of the government.

Describe one lasting legacy of the Federalist Party.

The Federalist party helped to shape the new nation.

Describe the important change in the Constitution that was prompted by the results of the election of 1800.

The Federalist party slowly declined and Alexander Hamilton was killed in a duel with Aaron Burr.

What were the key parts of the Alien Acts?

The President could expel any foreigner thought to be dangerous to the country and it made immigrants wait 14 years to gain citizenship.

Summarize and explain what John Adams's response was to the threat of war with France.

They were willing to pay money to defend their country, but wouldn't pay another country; also strengthened the Navy by building frigates.

What does the slogan "Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute!" mean?

They were willing to spend money to defend their country, but they would not pay a bribe to another nation.