Unit #7 – Jackson, Van Buren, Harrison & Tyler Notecards

Election of 1824

John Quincy Adams won after no candidate got a majority; decided by House of Representatives. Corrupt Bargain: Adams appointed Henry Clay as Secretary of State; Jackson supporters called it corrupt. 12th Amendment role: Allowed House to decide when no majority in Electoral College.

Election of 1828

Andrew Jackson won; campaign involved attacks on personal life (Peggy Eaton scandal, bigamy accusations, dueling history).

Jackson’s most enduring nickname

“Old Hickory”

Jackson’s motto about winning

“Let the people rule” / representing the common man.

Nullification Crisis

South Carolina opposed federal tariffs, claimed states could nullify laws, threatened secession. Jackson passed Force Bill and lowered tariffs. Jefferson influenced the idea of state nullification. Calhoun angered Jackson by supporting nullification.

Jackson’s Indian Policy

Viewed Indians as obstacles and uncivilized. Supported Indian Removal Act; led to Trail of Tears. Presidential goal: move tribes west to avoid conflict with settlers.

Supreme Court case for the Cherokees

Worcester v. Georgia: Georgia laws didn’t apply; Cherokees had sovereignty.

Jackson & the Bank of the United States

Disliked because it favored the wealthy and was unconstitutional. Vetoed recharter, moved funds to state banks → financial instability.

Van Buren’s problems as president

Caused mostly by Jackson’s policies, especially Bank destruction and pet banks → Panic of 1837.

William Henry Harrison’s claim to fame

“Tippecanoe and Tyler Too” – celebrated military heroism.

John Tyler as a poor Whig choice

Disagreed with Whig policies, vetoed bills; few successes: improved foreign relations and set stage for Texas annexation.