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Federal style architecture occurred in the United States between 1780 and 1830, particularly from 1785 to 1815. The period is associated with the early Republic, and the establishment of the national institutions of the United States. The founders of the United States consciously chose to associate the nation with the ancient democracies of Greece and Rome. This was a deliberate and marked contrast with the Gothic style used for many English public buildings, and associated with feudalism. Federal style takes influence from the Georgian Neoclassical style, but differed in its use of plainer surfaces with attenuated detail; it was most influenced by the Adam style, an interpretation of Ancient Roman architecture fashionable after the unearthing of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The American eagle was a common symbol used in this style, with the ellipse a frequent architectural motif.
The style reflected the nationalist aspirations of the time. Its successor was the Greek Revival style.
Architects:of the Federal period
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