What overarching theme characterized the Era of Good Feelings?

During the Era of Good Feelings, which roughly spanned from 1817 to 1825, there was a significant sense of national unity and pride following the War of 1812. This period is characterized by the dominance of the Democratic-Republican Party, particularly under the presidency of James Monroe. The absence of major political opposition allowed for the perception of a unified national front, resulting in a decline in partisan strife that had previously marked American politics.

The term "Era of Good Feelings" itself reflects this sense of harmony and a belief in the progress that the United States was making, both politically and economically. While tensions did arise over issues such as territorial expansion, slavery, and economic disparities, these did not overshadow the overall sentiment of political cooperation and the absence of divisive partisanship, which is why the correct answer focuses on political unity under a single-party system.

In this context, economic prosperity and social challenges were present, but they did not define the overarching theme of the period to the same extent as the political cohesion experienced. Military expansion and overseas intervention, although aspects of U.S. foreign policy, were not the primary focus domestically during this era, further underscoring the significance of political unity as