The Alien and Sedition Acts
Who were the Alien and Sedition acts aimed at?
Foreigners living in the US
What were the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions?
They were led by James Madison and Thomas Jefferson. They said that states could nullify federal laws it considered unconstitutional. They said each state is independent and had a right not to obey a law (states rights)
How did the Federalists use the anger over the XYZ affair?
To push two new bills through Congress
What was the advantage of these laws for the Federalists?
Helped stop immigrants from voting for the Democrat-Republicans, and stopped Democrat-Republican criticism of the government.
What was the Neutralization Act?
Immigrants had to be residents for 14 years before they could become a citizen, not 5.
What was the Alien Act?
It allowed the government to deport aliens who were considered "dangerous to the peace and safety of the United States"
What happened when these acts were passed?
It discouraged immigration and led some foreigners to leave the country. It also led to a lot of opposition for the Federalist party.
What was the Sedition Act?
It made it illegal to speak, write, or publish "false, scandalous and malicious" criticisms of the President or other government leaders. Anyone who did could be fined or jailed.
Who won the next presidential election?
John Adams ran for re-election, but was defeated by Thomas Jefferson
Why did the Federalists resent new immigrants?
Many immigrants joined the Republican party once they became citizens and could vote
What ended with the defeat of John Adams?
The Federalist Era
What was the reaction from these acts?
The public opinion shifted away from the Federalists.
What part of the Alien and Sedition Acts was unconstitutional, and why?
The sedition act was unconstitutional because it violated the first amendment, freedom of speech and the press.
