Which aspect was a common belief among the Democratic Party during its early formation?

During its early formation, a fundamental belief of the Democratic Party was the emphasis on states' rights. This perspective originated from a desire to limit the power of the federal government in favor of state sovereignty and self-governance. This principle was championed by early leaders like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, who were wary of centralized authority and believed that decisions should be made closer to the local level, reflecting the needs and priorities of individual states.

This commitment to states' rights contrasted sharply with the Federalists, who advocated for a stronger national government. As the Democratic Party evolved, particularly in the 19th century, the focus on states' rights remained a significant aspect of its ideology, influencing debates over issues such as slavery, segregation, and the extent of federal power. This belief fostered debates over the balance of authority between states and the federal government, a theme that would resonate throughout American history.

Other beliefs such as support for a National Bank and high tariffs were more aligned with the Federalist agenda, and universal suffrage was not a widespread belief during the early formation of the party, as voting rights were still largely restricted by property qualifications and gender. Thus, the focus on states’ rights is the distinguishing characteristic that accurately reflects a common belief