Final answer:
The defining characteristic of the Era of Good Feelings was a renewed sense of nationalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The defining characteristic of the Era of Good Feelings was a renewed sense of nationalism.
After the War of 1812, patriotic feelings ran high in the United States, leading to a period of national unity. Americans celebrated the country's victory over Britain and looked for ways to strengthen the nation. This era, coinciding with James Monroe's presidency, was characterized by a sense of pride and optimism, which prompted a local newspaper to coin the term 'era of good feelings.' This renewed nationalism can be seen in Monroe's first inaugural address and his efforts to mend regional divisions.
During this time, Congress also took steps to promote national growth, such as chartering the Second Bank of the United States and approving a protective tariff. The Supreme Court issued decisions that enhanced the power of the federal government, and Monroe and John Quincy Adams developed foreign policies to protect American interests in the Western Hemisphere.