The Early Republic 1783-1796 Flashcards
Republicanism
rebels resisted unreasonable claims of Britain no intention for revolution
Not identical to democracy by implied form of government which represented the whole people
The principles rested on Central proposition of popular sovereignty ‘ Oh power is vested in and consequently derived from the people’
The transition from colonies to states
A legal foundation for makeshift government seemed urgent to American leaders
Congress and John Adams called on all states to have a permanent constitution
1716–82 states adopted new constitutions 
How revolutionary was the American revolution
Elites vs Democrats
Elitists:
led assemblies in fear that democracy would result in anarchy
Right to vote exercised relatively infrequently
Two house legislator from representing the people the elite
Democrats
Men from humble backgrounds
No/low poverty qualifications for officeholding
Frequent elections one house legislator week governor
Revolutionary was the American revolution state constitutions
Most new constitutions were put into effect by state legislator with specific authorisation from electrate
Lower house representing the people
Upper house/Senate representing gentleman
Over 2/3 of white men over the age of 21 had the right to vote

How revolutionary was the American revolution? Bill of Rights
Virginia declaration of rights provided a model containing fundamental English liberties
Freedom of expression worship in assembly subordination of military power to civil power the right to trial by jury
Elite vs new men
The new arrangements were not models of democracy, as they did not fully trust individuals without property with political power.
However, the franchise was expanded as most states reduced qualifications for voting.
State governments became more responsive to popular opinion.
Assemblies included a larger number of small farmers and artisans to account for their representation.
How revolutionary was the american revolution
Cosmopolitans vs. Localists
North:
Cosmopolitans from commercial areas.
Welcomed activist government due to broader outlook.
South:
Large property owners.
Also welcomed activist government.
Rural localists in remote areas were suspicious of government banking and had narrower intellectual horizons.
How revolutionary was the american revolution? Policies in the States:
State control of finances and trade; army operations hindered administration. British occupation strained authority. Tax hikes, paper money, inflation. Oaths, extra taxes enforced loyalty.
How revolutionary was the american revolution? freedom of religon
Nine states prohibited established churches, promoting the idea of religion as a private matter.
Equality among churches was emphasized, with no church receiving special privileges over others.
Individuals were not to face formal disadvantages based on their religion.
