Which party favored a strong central government, supported Clay's American System, and social reforms?

Study for the CLEP US History 1 Test. Immerse in flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The Whig Party is the correct answer because it emerged in the early 1830s as a response to the policies of Andrew Jackson and the Democratic Party. The Whigs advocated for a strong central government that could actively promote economic growth and support infrastructure development, aligning with the principles of Henry Clay’s American System. This system aimed to create a national bank, support internal improvements such as roads and canals, and implement protective tariffs to foster American industry.

The Whigs were also proponents of various social reforms, including education and temperance, reflecting their belief in moral improvement and the ability of government to shape society for the better. Their platform included the idea that a strong government was essential for facilitating economic development and social progress, making them distinct in their approach compared to other political factions of the time.

Other parties, like the Democrats, were more inclined towards states' rights and a limited federal government, while the Federalists were mostly active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, which was before the Whigs gained prominence. The Libertarians, emerging much later, advocate for limited government and individual liberties, which contrasts sharply with the Whigs' pro-government interventionist stance.

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