Federalists versus Democratic Republicans Discussion Activity

Over the next two days, you will prepare and participate in a structured debate about the
Federalists and Democratic Republicans. Your goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the first
two political parties, their viewpoints, and how they relate to today’s political parties.

Within your table groups, you will be put in groups of two, one group representing the
Democratic Republicans as led by Thomas Jefferson, and the other representing the Federalists
as led by Alexander Hamilton. For the first day, you will work with your partner to research the
different viewpoints on the 6 major topics: the role of the central government, the US
economy, the French Revolution, the Alien and Sedition Acts, the National Bank, and war
debt. You will use both your textbook and online resources. I have also included a
vocabulary list that includes words you will need to understand in order to effectively
participate in our discussion. This worksheet will be turned in at the end of Day 1 for the
teacher to review.

To start day 2, you will get back your worksheets and create a one sentence summary of
each topic. As a class we will then discuss what actions we value during debate (listening,
questions, note-taking, etc.). Then you will start your group work. During each section it is
expected you fill out the same topics research page that you completed for your opposing
group as they present their arguments, citing who said which part. I have prepared some
questions you must ask but encourage you to ask more.

Here is how the debate will go:

1. Each group will present their summary of their position on each topic forcefully and
persuasively. If you are not presenting, you are to take notes and ask questions for
clarification (not the ones I have listed yet, this is merely a presentation of position). For
example, one group may state that “As [insert political part] we believe that the National
bank should be established, as allowed in the ‘necessary and proper clause’ of the
Constitution”.
2. Here is where the debate portion begins. You will argue for your position on each topic,
presenting the facts that support your point of view found in your research process. This
would be a good time to bring up any primary sources you used. You must listen well to
the other group, asking them at least the questions provided on your note sheet but you
should ask more that challenge their point of view. In your notes, please cite who said
which piece of information. This section should take the longest time.
3. Now you will reverse roles. Your group will present the other group’s position in a clear
and sincere manner. This will check for your understanding and how well you listening.
4. Finally, you will work to reach a consensus on the issues while still representing your
party. How would they try to reach a compromise? This may not be possible for all
issues, but do your best and record your decision for each in your notes.

Congratulations! You have now successfully participated in your classroom debate! We will
debrief as a class and then you will answer the final reflection sheet on your notes to turn in at
the end of class. I am excited to see what you all discover about the establishment of our two
party system!