32 pages • 1 hour read
Edward J. LarsonA Magnificent Catastrophe: The Tumultuous Election of 1800, America's First Presidential Campaign
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
What was the impact and relevance of the Hamilton v. Burr faceoff in the New York City election?
Which French historical events cast a shadow on the election of 1800, and what was the nature of their influence on American politics?
What was the nature and impact of the ideological split within the Federalist party?
How did Aaron Burr, a prominent Republican, come to enjoy the support of so many Federalist representatives in the tie-breaking votes in the House of Representatives?
How does our own era show echoes of the partisan politics of the 1800 election era?
In what ways are the politics of our era different than the American politics of 1800?
Describe the significance of the timing of George Washington’s death. In what ways, and to what extent, did it influence the election?
What event was known as the first presidential campaign, and how did it earn that designation?
The public profile of Alexander Hamilton has enjoyed a recent resurgence. Is his fame deserved? Is he worthy of contemporary admiration?
Which candidate would you have supported for the Presidency in 1800, and why? What vision of the American Republic would this candidate have helped to realize?
