As the second president of the newly independent United States, John Adams faced many trials both in political dilemmas and in gaining the trust and respect of the population. As the successor George Washington, Adams was challenged by the judgement and criticism of his citizens, because he and his decisions were constantly compared to that of Washington, who was universally admired as a leader. Adams also faced challenges with foreign countries such as France, which tested the United States foreign policy of neutrality as the country developed its international identity. Similarly, Adams contended with the balance of power of political parties at the end of his Presidential term. These trials defined Adams’ presidency as they demonstrated …show more content…
Though he was promoted by Washington and won the election of 1796, the people did not take to his rigid and stoic personality, which caused compromise to be difficult. Compared to Washington’s personality as a relatable and personable leader, the people found Adams cold and unyielding, resulting in his lack of overwhelming support. While this did not deter Adams, his confidence in his own beliefs did daunt the people. Though Adams could not control their opinion of him, their constant comparisons were not an asset to his term. This lack of support limited the success of his presidency by causing disunity and distrust between government and the people, while also creating a divide among the population in those who did and did not support him. He was certainly restricted by the lack of support, which was demonstrated even from the start of his presidency. Though he won the election, he won by a mere three votes from a largely Federalist population. Despite the fact that he and the population shared political beliefs, they were still hesitant of his authority, a prominent characteristic throughout his …show more content…
When elected, Adams is nominated as President, with Thomas Jefferson to be his vice president. Being a radical Republican, many feared the ideas of Jefferson but accepted his position as a balance incorporating the Republican Party, while still granting the Federalists more power. While this attempts to balance the Federalist and Antifederalist power in government, the vice president does not hold much influential power. Despite this, Jefferson maintains his role and fulfills his responsibilities, creating enough of a balance within the presidential cabinet to keep supporters of both causes content. However, in the election of 1800, Adams and Alan Burr lose to Jefferson for the presidential nomination. This nomination scares Adams and the Federalist supporters who fear for their new lack of influence in government, as the previous presidents had both been strong Federalist promoters. In attempt to remedy this and to support the dying Federalist cause, Adams and his administration attempt to take control of the only remaining governmental branch, the judiciary, in attempt to have at least one branch supportive of the Federalist ideas. While they are successful in dominating this area of government, the balance of Federalist and Republican parties is irrevocably