Congress and the first five presidents made decisions establishing a strong government that helped the nation grow in size and power

What were the major national issues and events faced by the first five presidents?

What were the accomplishments of George Washington?

What were the accomplishments of John Adams?

What were the accomplishments of Thomas Jefferson

What were the major accomplishments of James Madison?

All of the first five presidents were Virginians except for John Adams (Massachusetts).

GEORGE WASHINGTON:

• Federal court system was established
• Political parties grew out of the disagreements between Hamilton and Jefferson over the role of the federal government (strong vs. weak central government)
• The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution
• Plans were initiated for the development of a national capital in Washington, D.C.. Benjamin Banneker, an African American astronomer and surveyor, helped complete the design for the city.

JOHN ADAMS:

• A two-party system emerged during his administration.
• A Federalist

THOMAS JEFFERSON:

• He bought Louisiana from France (Louisiana Purchase)
• Lewis and Clark explored this new land west of the Mississippi River

JAMES MADISON:

• The War of 1812 caused European nations to gain respect for the United States

JAMES MONROE:

• He introduced the Monroe Doctrine warning European nations not to interfere in the Western Hemisphere
• Era of good feelings in U.S.

Resources and Materials:

• Text
• USA!
• PWCS CD "New Nation"
• Teacher created graphic organizers and interactive notebook
• Matching activity game
• Primary sources
• Materials for sort/pocket book for 5-presidents
• Teacher created flash cards
• Student web sites for practice