One reason for the formation of the Democratic-Republican Party was opposition to the Federalist Party and its policies. The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, supported a strong central government with more power placed in the hands of wealthy elites, while the Democratic-Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson, believed in a more limited central government and greater power for the states and the common people. The Democratic-Republicans were critical of the Federalists' support for a strong national bank, high tariffs, a strong military, and closer ties with Britain. They felt that these policies favored the interests of the wealthier classes and were detrimental to the majority of the population. Therefore, the Democratic-Republicans formed to provide a political alternative and represent the interests of the agrarian, rural population and states' rights.
