First U.S. Political Parties

At a glance:

Article abstract: Philosophical and practical differences cause leaders of the United States to form parties to advance their interests and ideals.

Summary of Event

The Founding Fathers did not anticipate the development of political parties in the United States, and the Constitution made no provision for them. James Madison, in writing The Federalist No. 10, discussed factions (parties) in detail and considered them to be a disease in the body politic. Madison feared the rise of factions, stating: “When a majority is included in a faction, the...

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