Development of the Two-Party System

  • Creation of the Federalist Party

    The federalist party was one of the first two parties in the United States. It favored a strong national government and the constitution.
  • Creation of Anti-Federalist / Democratic-Republican Party

    The Anti-federalist party was one of the first two political parties and the first party of opposition. They are also known as the democratic-republicans. They resisted the application of the Constitution.
  • Jacksonian Democrats

    Thomas Jefferson is elected president and Andrew Jackson afterwards. They favored farmers and states rights.
  • The Republican Party

    The creation of this party attracted former Whigs and anti-slavery Democrats. Lincoln was elected in 1860 as a member of this party.
  • Roosevelt Democrats

    The Great Depression allows Democrats to return to power led by Roosevelt.
  • Divided Government of Modern Democrats and Republicans

    Either party holds presidency during a term, often alternating, with congress commonly being the alternate party.