Final answer:
After the Constitution's ratification in 1788, the new U.S. federal government was set up with a system of federalism dividing powers between federal and state governments. The Washington administration and Congress aimed to fulfill the Constitution's principles, such as by adding the Bill of Rights. Despite the goal of unity, political divisions like the Federalist Party's push for strong federal power emerged.
Step-by-step explanation:
Formation of the New Federal Government After 1788
Following the ratification of the Constitution in 1788, the newly established American government commenced its operations during the Federalist Era, spanning from 1789 to 1801. This period was marked by the Washington administration taking office with a focus on implementing federalism, wherein power was distinctly divided amongst federal and state governments, fulfilling the goal of creating a 'more perfect union' by establishing the principles of the Constitution. Additionally, the Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution, upholding the promises made between 1787 and 1788, to ensure protection of individual liberties and address limitations of the Articles of Confederation.
The new government faced numerous challenges, including balancing the democratic ideals of the Revolutionary Era with the need for a more centralized authority to manage domestic and foreign policy issues. Despite the shared vision of a unified nation, political divisions quickly emerged, most notably between the Federalist Party, favoring strong federal power, and their opponents who sought to limit federal authority.
The Federalist Party, which initially was not a formal political party, held onto British notions of social hierarchy, and operated under the premise that political participation was linked to property rights, and thus maintained traditional social roles and ranks. These beliefs resulted in exclusions from voting and office holding for many citizens. The party's views also influenced the interpretation and direction of the new government's policies, affecting the scope of democracy in the United States.