The Democratic-Republicans were a political party in the early United States, founded in the 1790s by figures like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. They emerged in opposition to the Federalist Party, advocating for states' rights, agrarian interests, and a strict interpretation of the U.S. Constitution. The party believed in a limited federal government and emphasized the importance of individual liberties. Throughout the early 19th century, the Democratic-Republicans dominated American politics, particularly during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson from 1801 to 1809. The party eventually evolved into the modern Democratic Party, while its principles influenced the development of American political thought and the balance of power between state and federal authorities.