ERA OF GOOD FEELINGSSummary The Era of Good Feelings was a period in American history that started right after the War of 1812. America had just beat Britain for what would be the last time. The Era of Good feelings lasted from about 1817 to 1825. The time was dominated by one political party, the Democratic Republican Party. James Monroe was elected twice with little competition. The once opposing Federalist Party had lost all of its credibility through the Hartford Convention. As a result of a single party political domination the country had little politcal strife.
During the Era of Good Feelings many parts of America were strengthened. During this time an industrial revolution was starting in the north, transportation improvements, and the implication of the American System proposed by Henry Clay was underway. The status of America was strengthened as a whole. The economy was strengthened by the American System, new inventions, and transportation improvements. Although the Era of Good Feelings had little political strife there was still tension among the people. A major issue over slavery was rising. However, despite these tensions the unifying effect of America defeating Britain is undeniable. |
Nationalism/Sectionalism The Era of Good Feelings is mostly associated with American nationalism. America had just broken away from the British crown that had ruled them for so long. For the first time people began to consider themselves "Americans." Before this time people had recognized their alliance to the union, but still considered themselves "Rhode Islanders" or "Virginians"; not "Americans." This newfound pride to belong to America is nationalism. In addition, the improvements to the American infrastructure during this time is nationalism.
Also during this time there was slight separation among the people. In the Era of Good Feelings cotton plantations were rising in the south. In order to accommodate for the extensive labor needed for this cash crop, slaves were depended upon in the south. Separation over the matter of slavery would exist in America from this time through the Civil War. |