When one thinks of a transition from a Federalist government to Republican government, one will immediately think of drastic changes and political tension. Federalists had a loose interpretation of the law, while the Republicans had a more strict interpretation. There were other difference in belief, such as the Republican belief of freedom of speech and press as opposed to the Federalists belief of restriction of free speech and press. Even though it may not seem like there could be smooth transition from a Federalist government to a Republican government Jefferson was able to transition governments because he didn't make drastic changes, but rather went about perfecting and building on the Federalist government.

When Jefferson first came into office he pardoned all the victims of the Alien and Sedition Acts. That the Federalists had put on the people. This first act appeased the people and made the Republican government...