BVM2-BVM TASK 2 Jonathan Price

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C121

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Political Science

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Oct 30, 2023

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Jonathan Price Survey of United States History-C121 BVM2 — BVM TASK 2 A. Rise of Partisan Politics in the Early Republic: The Early Republic in the United States witnessed the emergence of partisan politics, a development that was underpinned by a multitude of significant conflicts and concerns. These disputes ranged from profound disagreements over the economic policies that should shape the fledgling nation to differing visions of the federal government's role. Federalists, led by figures such as Alexander Hamilton, advocated for a strong central government and closer ties with Britain, seeing it as essential for economic stability and international influence. In contrast, the Democratic-Republicans, guided by Thomas Jefferson, favored a more decentralized economic system and states' rights, striving for a more agrarian society. Foreign relations were another crucible of discord, notably in the context of the French Revolution. These schisms culminated in the development of the First Party System, which featured the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans as the primary contenders. The First Party System set the stage for the nascent nation's political future, paving the way for the formation of political parties, and offering a glimpse into the profound ideological divisions that would continue to shape American politics for generations to come. The rise of partisan politics during the Early Republic was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it established the foundations upon which the nation's political landscape would evolve. B. Development of the Second Party System: 1. Comparing the Platforms of the Whig and Democratic Parties: The Second Party System showcased two parties with distinctive platforms. The Whigs, led by Henry Clay, favored a strong federal government, supporting policies like protective tariffs and a national bank to boost industrialization. In contrast, the Democratic Party, guided by Andrew Jackson, advocated for a limited federal role, emphasizing states' rights and a more agrarian society. Both parties aimed to address economic concerns but had divergent approaches. 2. Describing the Leaders and Constituents of Each Party: The Whigs drew support primarily from urban businessmen and industrialists, aligning with a more centralized government role in the economy. Conversely, the Democratic Party found its base among a broader spectrum of rural and working-class voters, including small farmers and laborers, reflecting a preference for agrarian values and states' rights. These demographics underscored the parties' differing priorities and values. 3. Explaining the Contribution to Increased Democratization of American Politics: The Second Party System significantly contributed to the democratization of American politics through an expansion of voting rights. More white males gained the right to vote during this era, broadening political participation and making the electorate more representative of the American population. The competitive nature of the two-party system further boosted voter engagement, reshaping the political landscape, and fostering a more inclusive approach to governance and representation.

Jonathan Price Survey of United States History-C121 BVM2 — BVM TASK 2 C. Discuss the major movements and events that led to the Civil War: 1.Pro-Slavery vs. Abolitionist Debates: The antebellum period saw intense debates between pro-slavery advocates and abolitionists. Proponents of slavery argued for its economic importance and constitutional legitimacy, while abolitionists passionately opposed it on moral grounds, calling for immediate emancipation and universal human rights. These clashes exposed deep national divisions, primarily rooted in differing visions for the future of slavery in the United States. 2.Westward Expansion and Sectional Tensions: Westward expansion played a pivotal role in heightening sectional tensions. The status of slavery in newly acquired territories, whether they would permit it or become free states, became a critical issue. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 provided a temporary resolution, but subsequent events, including the Compromise of 1850 and the contentious Fugitive Slave Act, reignited North-South conflicts. The balance of power between free and slave states remained a central point of contention as the nation expanded westward. 3.Three Major Events Leading to the Civil War: The Civil War's outbreak resulted from a series of significant events. The Missouri Compromise of 1820, defining boundaries between slave and free territories, set the stage. The Compromise of 1850, incorporating the Fugitive Slave Act, intensified tensions. The divisive Dred Scott v. Sandford decision of 1857 deepened sectional divisions. The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, introducing popular sovereignty in the territories, led to violent conflicts and heightened the debate over slavery's expansion. The Lincoln- Douglas debates of 1858, especially those in Illinois, crystallized these divisions, pushing the nation closer to the precipice of the Civil War. These events highlighted entrenched issues that ultimately ignited one of the most significant conflicts in American history.

Jonathan Price Survey of United States History-C121 BVM2 — BVM TASK 2 Norton, M.B. (2015). A people & a nation. Retrieved from MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning MindTap - Cengage Learning

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