What Are The Similarities Between The Federalists And The Whigs

The statement “Although historically represented as distinct parties, the Federalists and the Whigs in fact shared a common political ideology, represented many of the same interest groups, and proposed similar programs and policies” is partially true. Both the Federalists and the Whigs shared common political ideas of the same interests groups, and proposed similar programs and policies- such as Clay’s American system and Hamilton’s economic plan. Both parties also believed in the National Bank because they thought it was necessary and proper. But, both parties had many differences as well. These differences consisted of representation, leadership and origination. The new supporters of the constitution became known as the Federalists. The Federalist Party was established originally to support the creation of a strong national government, after the
The Whigs favored more governmental involvement in commerce and favored the National Bank (like the Federalists) and industrial growth. They opposed rapid, uncontrollable settlement in the west. Southern and Northern businessmen supported the Whigs (they favored the wealth). The Whig party was led by former National-Republicans Daniel Webster and Henry Clay. The platform of the Whigs bared remarkable similarities to that of the old Federalist Party. The Whigs supported a more active national government that would check the "excesses of unrestricted individualism." The Whigs were also very supportive of the National Bank. They agreed with Hamilton in saying that it was "necessary and proper" in running the government and the economy smoothly. Henry Clay’s American System was similar to Hamilton’s economic system. The goal was to make America economically independent by increasing industrial production in the United States and by the Creation of the Second National Bank (bank, tariff, and internal