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Federalism Dbq Essay

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John Adams: Federalist or Nah? John Adams, one of the few federalist presidents of the United States, once stated, “I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states.” Notably, Adams supported the states while identifying strongly as a federalist. Adams federalist identity was based on his strong upbringing, belief in a strong Central government, and believed in government’s regulatory systems. Adams’ identity as a federalist was strongly developed through him this early life, along with the continued education and religious life. Adams went to Harvard and became a lawyer instead of becoming a religious minister like his parents wanted him to be. Although, he did not become a religious minister, religion still played a major role in his character and beliefs. Adams acclaimed, “Let them revere nothing but religion, morality and liberty.” Religion strongly influenced him while discerning the federalist party. The federalist believed that …show more content…

In the eyes of a federalist, a central government was a bright choice to keep the nation strong and sustainable. The Federalists were aware that that the problems of the country came from the weaknesses of the central government which was created by the Articles of Confederation (Independence Hall Association). The federalist political philosophy focused on freedom of the people with a ruling body supporting them. The problems that stemmed from the Articles of Confederation would no longer be problematic with a strong central government regulating what is socially acceptable. Adams was strongly behind the federalist party because of this argument for a central government. A strong central government would help create regulatory policies that could make a nation

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