The First Political Parties

Martina views the creators of the Democratic-Republican Party

It is 1787, at the end of the Constitutional Convention. Investigate some of the significant issues facing the early United States Government and how they led to various political parties. Also, take note of the leaders who helped shape these new political organizations.

Essential Questions

• What divisive issues led to the development of political parties?
• Who were the leaders of the emerging political parties?
• Why did Thomas Jefferson and James Madison start an opposition political party?