One early American geographer, Jedidiah Morse, the father of Samuel Morse, seemed captivated by the prospects offered by the new constitution of the United States. In his words, "every thing seems to wear the pleasing aspect of permanent tranquility and happiness" (1791, 61). Yet, that tranquility ended quickly as domestic disputes over banking and land policy, tariffs as well as internal improvements animated the spirits of party pundits. These issues were repeatedly debated in elections reminiscent of the days of Bush and Gore.

Even questions about America's role in foreign affairs entered into the election debates of the time. Indeed domestic and foreign policy issues were linked. Thus as Americans attempted to define their new position in the world, they constantly went head-to-head over fundamental questions that defined party politics. Out of these disputes arose the first two-party system, pitting Federalists (Alexander Hamilton) against Democratic-Republicans (Thomas Jefferson).

In a way, this debate is odd because the Constitution failed to address the issue of political parties; yet, almost from the creation of the United States, political parties have come to dominate the political landscape. Their emergence is important for another reason. Political debates in the nation's capital, quickly filtered down to debates at the state level where localism was very strong.

Given the acrimonious nature of partisan politics, how could nationalism take root? As you think about domestic and foreign policy debates, think about the growth of nationalism.