Activity Overview
When studying two opposing groups, it's helpful to compare and contrast their ideologies. This is especially useful when analyzing the two political factions during the Election of 1800. Have students create a grid storyboard to outline each party's viewpoints. Students will be able to compare, analyze, and synthesize what ideas and ideologies defined each political party, and further understand why the election of 1800 is a “revolutionary” transfer of power. Examining the differences between each will deepen discussion on why a transfer of power with no violence or bloodshed was considered revolutionary.
Students will research and analyze the following:
- Political Ideology
- Power of Government
- Who’s Who
- Results in Election of 1800
Extended Activity
Have students identify and compare political parties today. Outline and define the ideas and viewpoints of Democrats and Republicans to identify their differences and analyze what makes them different in a grid. This will also aid connections between modern politics and the election of 1800, as well as offering an opportunity to compare and contrast the parties of today with those of 1800.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard comparing and contrasting the political parties involved in the Election of 1800.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes with "Political Ideology", "Power of Government", "Who's Who", and "Results of Election".
- In the top row, describe each label from the perspective of the Federalists.
- In the bottom row, do the same for the Democratic-Republicans.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
When studying two opposing groups, it's helpful to compare and contrast their ideologies. This is especially useful when analyzing the two political factions during the Election of 1800. Have students create a grid storyboard to outline each party's viewpoints. Students will be able to compare, analyze, and synthesize what ideas and ideologies defined each political party, and further understand why the election of 1800 is a “revolutionary” transfer of power. Examining the differences between each will deepen discussion on why a transfer of power with no violence or bloodshed was considered revolutionary.
Students will research and analyze the following:
- Political Ideology
- Power of Government
- Who’s Who
- Results in Election of 1800
Extended Activity
Have students identify and compare political parties today. Outline and define the ideas and viewpoints of Democrats and Republicans to identify their differences and analyze what makes them different in a grid. This will also aid connections between modern politics and the election of 1800, as well as offering an opportunity to compare and contrast the parties of today with those of 1800.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard comparing and contrasting the political parties involved in the Election of 1800.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Label the title boxes with "Political Ideology", "Power of Government", "Who's Who", and "Results of Election".
- In the top row, describe each label from the perspective of the Federalists.
- In the bottom row, do the same for the Democratic-Republicans.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Election of 1800: Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans
How to Facilitate a Debate on Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans
Engage students by setting up a structured classroom debate between the two parties. Assign roles so students represent either Federalists or Democratic-Republicans and argue their viewpoints based on research. This activity encourages critical thinking and helps students understand each party's ideology more deeply.
Assign students to parties and roles
Divide the class so each group represents either the Federalists or Democratic-Republicans. Assign specific students to be key historical figures, like Alexander Hamilton or Thomas Jefferson, to bring the debate to life and give students ownership of their arguments.
Prepare debate questions that reflect party differences
Develop a list of debate questions focused on major issues such as the power of government, economic policy, or foreign alliances. Share these questions ahead of time so students can prepare strong, fact-based arguments for their assigned party.
Set clear rules and time limits for each debate round
Establish guidelines to ensure fair participation and respectful discussion. Use timers for opening statements, rebuttals, and closing arguments so every student has a chance to speak and the debate stays focused.
Debrief and reflect on the debate
After the debate, lead a class discussion to reflect on what students learned about each party's viewpoints. Encourage students to share how their perspectives may have changed and to make connections to modern political parties.
Frequently Asked Questions about Election of 1800: Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans
What were the main differences between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans in the Election of 1800?
Federalists favored a strong central government, banking interests, and close ties with Britain, while Democratic-Republicans supported states’ rights, agriculture, and friendship with France. Their ideological differences shaped the nation’s early political landscape.
Why is the Election of 1800 considered a revolutionary transfer of power?
The Election of 1800 is called revolutionary because it marked the first peaceful transition of power between political parties in U.S. history, setting a precedent for democracy without violence or upheaval.
How can students compare Federalists and Democratic-Republicans using a storyboard or chart?
Students can create a grid or storyboard with categories like Political Ideology, Power of Government, Who’s Who, and Election Results, filling in details for each party to visually compare their beliefs and leaders.
Who were the key leaders of the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans in 1800?
Federalists were led by John Adams and Alexander Hamilton, while Democratic-Republicans were led by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison during the 1800 election.
How can comparing the Election of 1800 to modern political parties help students understand U.S. politics today?
Comparing the Election of 1800 parties to today’s Democrats and Republicans helps students see how political ideas have evolved and draws connections between early American debates and current issues in government and society.
More Storyboard That Activities
Election of 1800: Jefferson vs. Adams
- Alexander Hamilton (1757-1804) • Political Graveyard • License Attribution (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
- James Monroe, U.S. Secretary of State • U.S. Department of State • License United States Government Work (http://www.usa.gov/copyright.shtml)
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