Final answer:
The Era of Good Feelings is associated with President James Monroe's administration, following the patriotic surge after the War of 1812. His efforts to promote national unity, including a goodwill tour and his reelection in 1820, characterized this period. Despite the appearance of national harmony, early signs of economic and political challenges began to surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Era of Good Feelings is associated with the administration of President James Monroe. Following the War of 1812, the Treaty of Ghent initiated a period of intense nationalism within the United States. The sense of national unity and pride was palpable, with Americans rejoicing in their triumph over the British and seeking to fortify their nation. James Monroe played a pivotal role in fostering this atmosphere with his inaugural address and goodwill tour, which aimed to heal the divisions exacerbated by the war, particularly with New Englanders who were largely opposed to the conflict.
Demonstrating his popularity, Monroe was welcomed even in the Federalist bastion of Boston in 1817, where a local newspaper first used the phrase "era of good feelings" to describe the national mood. Monroe's nearly unanimous reelection in 1820 further cemented the sentiment of solidarity and satisfaction that underscored his presidency.
Despite the harmony suggested by the term, it's important to note that the Era of Good Feelings still witnessed underlying economic, social, and political tensions that eventually rekindled partisan politicking. Key concepts from this period include the creation of the Second Bank of the United States, the protective tariff meant to foster American industry, Supreme Court decisions that bolstered federal power, and representations of an evolving foreign policy, particularly the Monroe Doctrine, which sought to protect American interests in the Western Hemisphere.