Meaning: The quote you have provided refers to a significant period in American political history known as the First Party System. This era, which lasted from the 1790s to the 1820s, was marked by the emergence of two dominant political factions: the Federalists and the Republicans (also known as the Democratic-Republicans). Herbert Croly, the author of the quote, points out that this period culminated in the victory of the Republican Party, which would go on to shape the trajectory of American politics in the years to come.

The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton and John Adams, advocated for a strong central government, a national bank, and close ties with Britain. They were generally supported by the urban elites, merchants, and businessmen who favored a centralized economic and political system. On the other hand, the Republicans, under the leadership of Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, championed states' rights, agrarian interests, and a strict interpretation of the Constitution. They found support among farmers, rural communities, and those who were wary of centralized power.

The conflict between the Federalists and the Republicans was multifaceted, encompassing differing views on economic policies, foreign relations, and the very nature of the federal government. The Alien and Sedition Acts, which were passed by the Federalist-controlled Congress in 1798, heightened tensions as they curtailed the rights of immigrants and restricted freedom of speech, leading to accusations of authoritarianism. In response, the Republicans vehemently opposed these measures, citing them as violations of individual liberties and state sovereignty.

The pivotal moment in the triumph of the Republicans came with the election of 1800, in which Thomas Jefferson defeated the incumbent President John Adams. This peaceful transfer of power from one party to another marked a significant milestone in American democracy and solidified the Republicans' position as the dominant political force. Jefferson's presidency ushered in a new era of governance that emphasized limited federal power, agrarian values, and westward expansion. The Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the United States, stands as a testament to the Republicans' commitment to territorial expansion and agrarian interests.

Herbert Croly's observation about the complete triumph of the Republicans underscores the enduring impact of this period on American political history. The victory of the Republicans not only shaped the policies and direction of the country during the early 19th century but also set the stage for the demise of the First Party System and the emergence of new political alignments. The Republican Party's ascendancy signaled a shift towards a more decentralized, agrarian-focused government, laying the groundwork for the rise of populism and the eventual splintering of the party into various factions.

In conclusion, the conflict between the Federalists and the Republicans during the first phase of American political history represented a pivotal moment in the nation's development. The triumph of the Republicans, as noted by Herbert Croly, left an indelible mark on the trajectory of American politics, shaping the course of governance and policy for years to come. This period serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of political struggles and the transformative power of democratic elections in shaping the destiny of a nation.