The election of 1800 is often referred to as the 'Revolution of 1800' because it

Core Concept

The election of 1800, in which Thomas Jefferson defeated incumbent John Adams, is called the 'Revolution of 1800' because it marked the first time in American history that power peacefully transferred from one political party to another. This demonstrated the stability of the new constitutional system, even as it fundamentally changed the direction of the country from Federalist to Democratic-Republican control. (Note: While the election did result in an electoral tie between Jefferson and his running mate Aaron Burr, requiring a House vote, and did lead to the Twelfth Amendment being ratified to prevent future such situations, these were consequences rather than the reason for the name 'Revolution of 1800.')