Social Studies - United States History I
Lesson Plans

U.S. I Strand 5: THE DEVELOPMENT OF POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS AND PROCESSES

(Ca. 1783-1861)

The United States' constitutional republic and the political systems that Americans are familiar with took shape as the Constitution was interpreted and applied. Reformers have worked to ensure that increasing numbers and classes of people enjoy the rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. Opposing political parties have worked to mold the leadership, laws, and policies of the new nation in order to fit their vision of America. The first half of the nineteenth century was rich with examples of these organizing efforts that have set precedents still followed in the 21st century.

Possible Guiding Questions to Consider:

• What are the primary functions of political parties?
• Why are there only two dominant political parties at the national level?
• Is the two-party political system good for American democracy?
• Are there conditions that are necessary in order for a reform movement to gain momentum or critical mass?
• What are the most effective ways to promote reform?
• How have Supreme Court decisions shaped the government?

U.S. I Standard 5.1:

Students will use evidence to document the development and evolution of the American political party system and explain the historic and current roles of political parties.

• "A Glorious Liberty Document": The U.S. Constitution and Its Principles
  How are the republican principles of limited government, separation of powers, and checks and balances reflected in the U.S. Constitution?
• All Legislative Powers Herein Granted – The Legislative Process 1789-1860
  In the early republic, Congress was a colorful, exciting, unpredictable, and contentious branch of the United States government. The members constantly quarreled but often deliberated and compromised through persuasive oratory and rational conversation. Congress was divided by party and sectionalism, but was guided through these difficulties by legislative statesmen. The Congress continued to function as the undisputed law making body of the people of the United States. Even during some of its most tumultuous years, from 1789 until the outbreak of the Civil War in 1860, the Congress effectively governed the nation.
• The 1828 Campaign of Andrew Jackson and the Growth of Party Politics
  Changes in voting qualifications and participation, the election of Andrew Jackson, and the formation of the Democratic Party"?due largely to the organizational skills of Martin Van Buren"?all contributed to making the election of 1828 and Jackson's presidency a watershed in the evolution of the American political system.

---

http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Robert  Austin and see the Social Studies website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.