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The Constitutional Convention meets in Philadelphia to establish the Constitution to improve the government.
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George Washington becomes president. Congress holds its first meeting in New York.
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The Federalist Party formed around Alexander Hamilton while Washington was president. Federalist were prominently rich and had supported the Constitution. They favored a strong central government.
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The Anti-Federalist centered around Thomas Jefferson. They believed in limiting the national government and protecting the common people.
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The Bill of Rights becomes a part of the Constitution.
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The US Capital is moved to D.C.
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Jefferson's election marked the beginning of Democratic reign until the Civil War.
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The Supreme Court can declare a law unconstitutional because of Marbury v. Madison.
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Jackson's party included farmers, debtors, frontier pioneers, and slaveholders.
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Whigs and antislavery Democrats are swayed by the introduction of the new Republican Party. In the early years, they favored abolishing slavery.
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Lincoln's presidency marks the beginning of the 75 year long reign of the Republican Party.
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The depression leads to a change in government. Led by FDR, the Democratic Party regains control of the government.
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(GOP) The modern Republican Party favors a government that lends citizens more freedom and they also like to focus on economic growth and job security.
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Democrats like a strong federal government and support minority and women’s rights. They're also concerned with environmental protection and progressive reforms.
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Starting in 1968, no one party consistently holds presidency and the opposing party usually controls Congress.