1. History of the Two Party System

2. Nation’s First Parties Originally Formed around the issue of Constitutional ratification and carried into the 1800s Federalists(Pro-Ratification)- led by Alexander Hamilton and advocated a liberal interpretation of the Constitution Democratic-Republicans(old Anti-Federalists)- led by Thomas Jefferson and followed strict interpretation

3. The Era of the Democrats(1800- 1860) During this time: Federalist dissolved(1816) Democrats split into factions Whigs, led by Henry Clay and Daniel Webster Democrats, led by Andrew Jackson

4. Rise of the Republicans The disagreements that led to the Civil War became really heated during the 1850s. The leaders of the Whigs had died and the party died with them Democrats divided again(pro vs. anti-slavery) Republican party formed to challenge for power

5. Era of the Republicans(1860- 1932) Lincoln was the first Republican. 1912, their power was challenged when Teddy Roosevelt was denied the Repub. Ticket. He split Republican votes from Taft when he formed the Bull Moose Party(Woodrow Wilson won)

6. Return of the Democrats(1932- 1968) Franklin Roosevelt was elected to four consecutive terms.