Era of Good Feelings

A detailed Summary of Era of Good Feelings

James Monroe was president during the "Era of Good Feelings". It was called that because there were few political battles and his Democratic-Republican party ruled almost unopposed. It was a transitional period in which the nations democratic institutions and capitalist economy were taking form. The "Era of Good Feelings" was a period of dramatic growth and intense nationalism. National identity, as opposed to state interest, was growing as evidenced by the westward movement and the construction of roads and canals. These internal improvements were built to tie together the nation's commerce. They were considered a national priority and were funded by Congress. Other evidence of new nationalism was demonstrated by the way President Monroe was received by the people on his tour of New England and the west. Also, the spirit of nationalism was apparent in Supreme Court decision that established the supremacy of the federal government and expanded the powers of Congress. During this period, the nation had experienced a huge economic boost. Preceding the war of 1812, the American people were forced to diversify their production by manufacturing and agriculture because they could no longer depend on the goods of Britain. For ma

ny years since America had been formed, they had looked to Britain as a source of supplies. Because of the impressments and Orders of Council, Americans turned away from Britain. They turned inward to find the resources they needed. American manufacturers, farmers, and traders were able to expand their production to satisfy the needs of their country. Thus, industrial development enhanced national self-sufficiency and united the nation. During the War of 1812, American commerce paused in order to focus on their struggle for survival. However, after the War of 1812, the relations between America and Britain settled down peacefully, and trade was able to resume. England needed resources from America to get back on its feet after the Napoleonic Wars, therefore giving American traders, manufacturers, and farmers a lot of business. The second National Bank was getting started in 1816 by organizing management and money transactions. The state banks helped in westward expansion by creating a loose standard of credit allowing farmers to buy land easily. The American economy, for a time, truly benefited from the actions of the state banks and from Britain's need for resources. Also during this era, American interest and power in foreign policy was especially apparent. In the Monroe Doctrine, the principle that the United States would not tolerate new colonies in the western hemisphere or interference by outsi

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Approximate Word count = 953
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: History