Page "George Washington" Paragraph 73

Washington was not a member of any political party and hoped that they would not be formed, fearing conflict that would undermine republicanism.

His closest advisors formed two factions, setting the framework for the future First Party System.

Secretary of Treasury Alexander Hamilton had bold plans to establish the national credit and build a financially powerful nation, and formed the basis of the Federalist Party.

Secretary of the State Thomas Jefferson, founder of the Jeffersonian Republicans, strenuously opposed Hamilton's agenda, but Washington typically favored Hamilton over Jefferson, and it was Hamilton's agenda that went into effect.

Jefferson's political actions, his support of Philip Freneau's National Gazette, and his attempt to undermine Hamilton, nearly led George Washington to dismiss Jefferson from his cabinet.

Though Jefferson left the cabinet voluntarily, Washington never forgave him, and never spoke to him again.