Era of Good Feelings

With the Federalist decline, the Republican Party dominated national politics. In 1816, the Republican candidate for president, James Monroe, easily vanquished his opponent. The Federalists disintegrated soon after the election, leaving the nation with a one-party system. In 1820, Monroe received all but one electoral vote in his successful bid for reelection. Because the Republicans ruled the political landscape unchallenged, the years between 1816 and 1824 have been labeled the "Era of Good Feelings."

Video: James Monroe: Era of Good Feelings?

Was this really an Era of Good Feelings? Watch this video to learn more about this term and why that might not be such a good term for this period of history.

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Text Version

The Republican ascendency did, in fact, reflect a compromise between the conflicting factions of the 1790s and early 1800s. This occurred, in part, because the Republican party had moved away from its commitment to small government and a strictly agrarian emphasis. A new guard of Republicans emerged, favoring nationalism cemented by government action in commerce, manufacturing, and commerce to promote economic growth. Thus, the Republican Party of the late 1810s and early 1820s incorporated several Federalist ideals, as well as many former Federalists.

Is this a typical American pattern?

Yes. American political parties tend to adopt the popular ideas of third parties or their opponents. Many popular reforms that are initially rejected by the people in power are later embraced by the next generation of leaders. Look for this pattern as you continue your study of American history.

Despite the absence of partisan divisions, due to the lack of a political foe, several sources of friction existed during the Era of Good Feelings. An economic downturn in 1819 increased some Americans' suspicions of the Bank of the United States. Southerners and westerners grew concerned about the protective tariff passed after the war to boost the home market. Many citizens believed that states' rights should be expanded.

Did the Federalists’ viewpoints and ideas disappear during the Era of Good Feelings?

No. Although the Federalist Party disappeared, many of its economic goals were incorporated into the Republican Party.