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The signing of the constitution
This created a lot of dispute between Americans. Many people thought the constitution wouldn't protect the rights of the people, and thought a bill of rights should be written. These people also wanted a weaker central government, and more power to go to the states. They would later be called the anti-federalist party, led by Thomas Jefferson. On the contrary, the federalist party believed if the government was weak, individual rights were at risk. Alexander Hamilton led this party. -
The federalist party is founded
Federalist were in favor of a strong central government, and wanted the constitution to be ratified. -
Washington is against political parties
George Washington, before stepping down from presidency, advised against the "baneful effects of the spirits of the party." -
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The Democratic-Republican Party
At first, Jefferson's party was called the Democratic Republicans. During this time span, the party grew stronger, while the federalist party grew weaker. -
All presidential candidates run as Democratic Republicans
By now, the federalist party was nearly completely diminished, and everyone identified with the Democratic Republicans. -
The Democratic Party splits
In 1828, the Democratic Republicans split. Half the group supported Andrew Jackson, these would be the Democrats. They wanted to stress their support of the people. -
The Whig party forms.
The whigs rose to compete with Jackson's democrats. -
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The Whigs and Democrats remain
These two parties remained the main two until the 1850s. -
New parties arise
In 1854, the Democrats and the Whigs left their parties to create new ones. These parties were called the Fusion party, the People's party, and the Independent party, but the most used name was the Republican party. The republicans didn't agree amongst themselves whether slavery should be abolished in the south, but they did want it kept out of the north. Many northerners agreed, and enable the Republicans to ro run for seats in congress in 1854. -
Lincoln is elected as president
In 1860, Lincoln is the first Republican President. Ever since then, Republicans and Democrats have been the main two parties of America. -
Prohibitionist Party
The prohibitionists were yet another of America's third parties. They wanted to ban alcohol. This party is what is called a single-issue party; these do not last long, and often fade away when their issue is solved, or is unpopular. -
The Populist Party
Several 3rd parties show up over America's history, the populists being one of them. They were made up of farmers and laborers, and promoted 8 hour work days along with the direct election of senators.