Apush unit V notes

Democracy

A movement during Andrew Jackson’s presidency promoting greater democracy for the common man and reducing the influence of wealthy elites.

“Old Hickory”

A nickname for Andrew Jackson, reflecting his toughness and stubbornness.

Second Party System

The political system in the U.S. from the 1820s to the 1850s characterized by the Democrats and the Whigs.

Spoils System

The practice of giving government jobs to political supporters, used by Jackson to reward loyal followers.

“Kitchen Cabinet”

An informal group of advisors that Jackson consulted more than his official cabinet.

Battle of New Orleans

A major U.S. victory in the War of 1812 that made Jackson a national hero.

Tariff of Abominations

A high tariff passed in 1828 that angered the South for benefiting Northern industries.

Nullification Crisis

A political conflict in the 1830s when South Carolina claimed it could nullify federal tariffs.

Indian Removal Act of 1830

A law authorizing the forced relocation of Native American tribes to lands west of the Mississippi.

Cherokee Nation v. Georgia

An 1831 Supreme Court case ruling the Cherokee had limited rights as a dependent nation.

Worcester v. Georgia

An 1832 ruling that the state of Georgia could not enforce laws within Cherokee territory.

Trail of Tears

The forced relocation of the Cherokee and other tribes, during which thousands died.

Five “Civilized Nations”

The Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes recognized for adopting some European customs.

Roger B. Taney

Jackson’s appointee as Chief Justice known for supporting states’ rights and the Dred Scott decision.

Second National Bank

A national bank opposed by Jackson, believed to favor the wealthy and exert too much economic power.

Specie Circular

An order requiring public land purchases in gold or silver to curb land speculation, issued by Jackson.

Indian Intercourse Act (1834)

A law establishing a permanent Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

Maysville Road (veto)

Jackson’s veto of funding for a local road project, arguing it should not be federally funded.

Peggy Eaton Affair

A scandal involving Jackson’s cabinet and their wives, leading to a reshuffle in the cabinet.

“Pet Banks”

State banks where Jackson placed federal funds withdrawn from the Second National Bank.

“King” Andrew

A nickname for Jackson by opponents who viewed him as abusing presidential power.

Whigs

A political party formed in opposition to Jackson, advocating for a strong Congress.

Charles River Bridge v. Warren Bridge

An 1837 case where Taney ruled in favor of new business interests over existing ones.

Nicholas Biddle

President of the Second National Bank and main opponent of Jackson during the Bank War.

Panic of 1837

A financial crisis following the collapse of the banking system, influenced by Jackson’s policies.