US History Jackson to Compromise of 1850

What changes during the 1820s led to an increase in democracy?

Expansion of suffrage by removing property requirements for voting and introduction of nominating conventions.

What was the 'corrupt bargain' in the Election of 1824?

Jackson claimed Henry Clay helped Adams win the presidency in exchange for being named vice president.

What was John Quincy Adams' main qualification?

He was highly experienced, having served as Secretary of State and was politically active from a young age.

Why was John Quincy Adams viewed as unsuccessful despite his qualifications?

He lacked popularity due to controversy surrounding the 'Corrupt Bargain' and an unpopular 'Tariff of Abominations'.

What did Andrew Jackson’s election symbolize?

The rise of the common man and a shift in political power towards ordinary citizens.

What was the Spoils System during Andrew Jackson's presidency?

A practice of rewarding political supporters with government jobs, often leading to concerns over corruption and inefficiency.

What was the Indian Removal Act?

A law that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands to designated Indian Territory.

What was the significance of the Tariff of Abominations?

It led to a crisis in South Carolina where the state declared the tariff unconstitutional, prompting a nullification crisis.

What was the ultimate consequence of Jackson's attack on the Bank of the United States?

The Panic of 1837, a financial crisis that resulted from the destabilization of the banking system.

What led to the rise of the Whig Party?

Opposition to Andrew Jackson’s policies, including his destruction of the Bank of the United States and his use of executive power.

What did the Wilmot Proviso propose?

An amendment to prohibit slavery in territories acquired from Mexico, though it was never passed.

What was one of the most controversial parts of the Compromise of 1850?

The Fugitive Slave Act, which required escaped slaves to be returned to their owners.

What was the Gadsden Purchase?

A 1853 land acquisition by the U.S. from Mexico, intended to facilitate the construction of a southern transcontinental railroad.

What was Manifest Destiny?

The belief that the U.S. was destined by Providence to expand across North America.

What was the immediate cause of the Mexican-American War?

The annexation of Texas and the resulting border dispute with Mexico.

How was the Oregon boundary dispute resolved?

Diplomatic negotiations led to a peaceful settlement without conflict with Britain.

What was the significance of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

It ended the Mexican-American War and resulted in Mexico ceding vast territories to the United States.

What were the major points of difference between the Whigs and Democrats?

Whigs supported a strong federal government and economic development, while Democrats favored states' rights and limited federal intervention.