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Those who stand for nothing fall for anything.

Alexander Hamilton

Originally, most people in the U.S. identified the Republican Party during the late 1800s by its opposition to slavery.  Over time, other fundamental beliefs united people together under the Republican banner, such as a smaller non-intrusive Federal government and low taxes.  In a nutshell, they were people who just wanted to be left alone.  The Federal government was there to handle Constitutional matters beyond the capacity of the individual states, such as maintaining our national defense, printing money, and guaranteeing and safeguarding the liberties and freedoms of the citizens.

During the 20th century, as the role and scope of the Federal government increased and got involved in more social, economic and domestic issues, particularly on a local level, the makeup and belief systems of the political parties also changed and started to take shape.  Republicans believe in the individual, as envisioned by our Founders, rather than Groupthink, whereby, identify politics or a "one size fits all" ideology is expected of our members.  We represent a cross-section of people, from various social, economic and demographic backgrounds.

While no one comprehensive set of beliefs or ideology can describe people who identify as Republicans, we generally tend to be people who proscribe to a more traditional role of government.  Like people of days gone by, they too want less government in their lives, and would prefer that most issues be left with the People, or with the States, as it was originally intended.  

Modern conservatism allows room for robust opinions and debates on a variety of issues such as free market capitalism and free enterprise, Constitutionally limited government, a strong national defense, deregulation, less taxes, sound fiscal policy, human and personal rights, conservation and a value system rooted in a Judeo-Christian foundation. 

While certainly not universally applicable nor interpreted the same by every person who identifies as a Republican, Haley Barbour is often cited as defining what it means to be a Republican, by calling attention to a number of these issues and beliefs.

The actual Platform is established by the Republican National Committee, and is the basis for political candidates on the National level.

• I believe the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability, and responsibility must be honored. 
• I believe in equal rights, equal justice, and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age, or disability. 
• I believe free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth, and prosperity. 
• I believe government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn. 
• I believe the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations, and that the best government is that which governs least. 
• I believe the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people. 
• I believe Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times. 
• I believe Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom, and human rights throughout the world. 
• Finally, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.