Who was the Federalist candidate elected in 1797?

The Federalist candidate elected in 1797 was John Adams. After serving as the first Vice President under George Washington, Adams ran for President as a Federalist and won the election of 1796. His election marked the first peaceful transition of power between political parties in the United States, as he succeeded Washington, who was not affiliated with any political party but is often associated with the Federalist ideals.

John Adams' presidency was significant as he navigated challenges such as foreign relations with France and the strengthening of the federal government, often reflecting Federalist principles. His supporters advocated for a strong centralized government, which was a core tenet of Federalism, distinguishing him from his opponent, Thomas Jefferson, who represented the Democratic-Republicans and favored states' rights and agrarian interests. This context highlights Adams' role as a Federalist leader during a pivotal time in early American history.