The Jacksonian Era (1828-1840)

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on the Jacksonian Era.

Jacksonian Era

A period in American history from 1828 to 1840 characterized by the presidency of Andrew Jackson and his populist approach.

Common Man

A term used by Andrew Jackson to describe his belief in the importance of the average American citizen.

Spoils System

The practice of giving political power and jobs to friends and supporters of the party in power.

Veto Power

The authority of the president to reject a bill passed by Congress.

Nullification Ordinance

A declaration by South Carolina that allowed the state to nullify federal tariffs.

Trail of Tears

The forced relocation of Cherokee Indians from their homelands to designated Indian Territory.

Second Bank of the United States

A national bank chartered in 1816 that was opposed by Andrew Jackson and ultimately destroyed.

Eaton Affair

A scandal involving Secretary of War John Eaton that highlighted divisions in Jackson's cabinet.

Tariff of Abominations

The unpopular tariff of 1828 that imposed high duties on imported goods.

1832 Presidential Election

The election in which Andrew Jackson won reelection against Henry Clay.

Indian Removal Act

A law passed in 1830 that authorized the removal of Native Americans from their lands.

Specie Circular

An executive order requiring that land be purchased with gold or silver.

Hayne-Webster Debate

A famous debate in 1830 over states' rights versus federal authority.

Political Party Systems

The classification of political parties in the United States, such as the Democrats and Whigs.

Martin Van Buren

The Secretary of State under Jackson who later became the 8th President of the United States.

Daniel Webster

A prominent American statesman and senator known for his strong stance on federal authority.

John C. Calhoun

The Vice President under Jackson who opposed many of Jackson’s policies, especially regarding tariffs.

Cherokee Nation vs. Georgia

An 1831 Supreme Court case that established that Indian nations were not foreign states.

Worcester vs. Georgia

An 1832 Supreme Court case ruling that the state of Georgia could not impose its laws on Cherokee lands.

Andrew Jackson's Presidency

Marked by a focus on populism, executive power, and controversial policies regarding Native Americans.

Panic of 1837

An economic crisis that led to widespread unemployment and a declining economy.

1836 Presidential Election

An election where Martin Van Buren succeeded Andrew Jackson as president.

Cherokee Removal Debate

A contentious discussion regarding the rights and removal of Cherokee Indians from their territory.

Federal Government,

The national government of the United States, which Jackson often positioned himself against regarding states' rights.

Biddle's Bank

A term referring to Nicholas Biddle’s management of the Second Bank of the United States.

Andrew Jackson’s Legacy

Complex and debated, characterized as both a champion of democracy and an autocrat.

Civic Nationalism

An ideology that emphasizes citizenship and the importance of being involved in the political process.

Native American Treaties

Agreements made between the U.S. government and Native American tribes regarding land and removal.

Political Coalition

A group of individuals with diverse interests who come together to achieve a common goal.

Whig Party

A political party formed in the 1830s in opposition to Andrew Jackson and the Democrats.

Federal Revenue Distribution

The process by which federal funds were allocated to various levels of government, especially during Van Buren's presidency.

Jackson's Inauguration

The event that marked the beginning of Andrew Jackson’s presidency in March 1829.

Federal Spending Policies

Policies under Jackson aimed at reducing government expenditure and paying off debts.

Political Power Shift

The transition of political influence from Eastern elites to Western common men during Jackson's era.