Eras

The present contentious situation in this country is one of the worst I can remember. Since I have been around a long time now, this is saying something, 

Yet there is a theory, going back to the 19th century, that American history witnesses an oscillation of two successive principles: strife vs. harmony. The time of the War of 1812 was a bitterly contentious one. 

Yet things changed, for the succeeding Era of Good Feelings reflected a renewed sense of national purpose and a desire for unity among Americans. The era saw the collapse of the Federalist Party and an end to the bitter partisan disputes between it and the dominant Democratic-Republican Party. President James Monroe strove to downplay partisan affiliation in making his nominations, with the ultimate goal of national unity. 

So if this pattern is still valid it is useless now to demand a return to civility; it will come when it comes.