Understanding Adams' Midnight Appointments

The video discusses the lasting legacy of President John Adams, focusing on his 'midnight appointments' during the final days of his presidency. After the Federalists lost power in the 1800 election, Adams and the Federalist Congress passed the Judiciary Act of 1801, allowing Adams to fill the courts with Federalist judges. This move led to the establishment of judicial review in the U.S. political system. The video also highlights how modern presidents use their final days in office to push through last-minute agendas, especially with a supportive Congress.

What was the significant political change during the election of 1800?

• John Adams was re-elected as President.

• The Federalists gained more power.

• Thomas Jefferson, a Democratic-Republican, won the presidency.

• The Federalists retained control of Congress.

What was the purpose of the Judiciary Act of 1801?

• To increase the power of the Democratic-Republicans.

• To reduce the number of federal courts.

• To abolish the Supreme Court.

• To allow Adams to appoint Federalist judges.

How did Adams use the Judiciary Act of 1801?

• He appointed Democratic-Republican judges.

• He packed the courts with Federalist judges.

• He reduced the number of judges.

• He delayed judicial appointments.

What was one major outcome of Adams' judicial appointments?

• The introduction of judicial review.

• The end of the Federalist Party.

• The expansion of the Supreme Court.

• The impeachment of Thomas Jefferson.

What is judicial review?

• The review of judicial appointments by Congress.

• The ability of courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

• The annual evaluation of judges' performance.

• The process of appointing judges.

How do modern presidents use their final days in office?

• To dissolve the Supreme Court.

• To relax and prepare for retirement.

• To appoint new members of Congress.

• To push through last-minute agendas.

What is a 'friendly Congress' in the context of presidential actions?

• A Congress that quickly passes the President's legislation.

• A Congress that is indifferent to the President's actions.

• A Congress that is controlled by the opposing party.

• A Congress that opposes the President's agenda.