1792

Adams became the Presidential candidate of the Federalists almost automatically, after having been Vice President for eight years. The Jeffersonians relished the ability to attack the policies of the Federalists without having to publicly attack the immensely popular Washington. As a result, the struggle between Adams and Jefferson became an all out battle.

The Jeffersonians depicted Adams, on a personal level, as a despot who wished to become a monarch. On the other hand, Jefferson was depicted as a demagogue who preyed on people fears.

In fact, many substantive issues divided the two candidates. Adams supporting a strong central government; Jefferson supporting greater dispersal of power amongst the states.

Adams condemned loudly the French revolution and its excesses while Jefferson supported the revolution, while showing concern for its excesses. Adams saw France as America's main threat, while Jefferson saw England as the main threat.

Washington threw his support behind Adams- the deciding factor in the election. It allowed Adams to inch Jefferson out. This, despite an effort by Hamilton to throw the election to Adams' Vice Presidential candidate Thomas Pickney.