WEST-E Social Studies Practice Test

What was a primary disagreement between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans?

1. The role of the judiciary in government

2. The balance of power between national and state government

3. The process of amending the Constitution

4. The necessity of a standing army

The correct answer is: The balance of power between national and state government

The primary disagreement between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans centered on the balance of power between national and state governments. Federalists, such as Alexander Hamilton, believed in a strong central government that could maintain order and support economic growth. They argued that a robust federal authority was necessary to deal with issues that affected the nation as a whole, such as defense and international trade. On the other hand, Democratic-Republicans, led by figures like Thomas Jefferson, advocated for states’ rights and a limited federal government. They were concerned that a powerful national government could become tyrannical and infringe on the liberties of the individual states and their citizens. This fundamental debate over how power should be allocated between the federal and state governments laid the groundwork for many political disagreements that followed, shaping the early political landscape of the United States. In summary, the essential conflict between these two parties revolved around their differing philosophies regarding the extent of federal authority relative to state sovereignty, greatly influencing the development of American political thought.