Which region was more likely to align with the Federalist principles during the early republic?

New England was more likely to align with Federalist principles during the early republic because it was characterized by a strong mercantile economy, a well-established banking system, and close ties to England, which were key components of Federalist ideology. The Federalists advocated for a strong central government to stabilize the economy and facilitate commerce, ideals that resonated with the urban, trade-focused areas of New England. Moreover, many of the prominent leaders of the Federalist Party, including George Washington, John Adams, and Alexander Hamilton, hailed from New England, further solidifying the region's association with Federalist values.

In contrast, other regions had differing economic interests and political cultures that often clashed with Federalist ideals. The South was more agrarian and supported states’ rights, which often put them at odds with the Federalists' preference for a powerful federal government. The West, still in the process of development, had diverse interests that were not yet fully aligned with either party. The Midwest, emerging as a key region during this time, was also more inclined towards agrarian values and was often more aligned with Democratic-Republican principles advocating for expansion and agrarianism over Federalist commercial interests.