Significant Trends During the Era of Good Feelings

During the Era of Good Feelings, which spanned from the end of the War of 1812 to the mid-1820s, the United States experienced a sense of national unity and political harmony. This period is often characterized by the dominance of the Democratic-Republican Party and a decreased role of the Federalists. However, underlying tensions—especially around economic issues, territorial expansion, and slavery—suggest that this era was not as harmonious as its title implies. Which of the following statements best explains a significant trend during the Era of Good Feelings?