History P3 - Chapter 3.1 - The Election of Andrew Jackson, 1828: Causes and Significance

What was controversial about the 1824 election?

Jackson won the popular vote but lost to John Quincy Adams in the House (“Corrupt Bargain”).

Why was there growing dissatisfaction before 1828?

People disliked the elite political establishment and wanted more democratic participation.

How did the enlarged franchise help Jackson?

Property requirements were removed in many states, so more ordinary white men could vote.

What was Jackson’s populist appeal?

He was seen as a war hero and “man of the people,” opposing elites and corruption.

How did Jackson’s campaign strategy help him win?

He used rallies, parades, and newspapers, portraying Adams as aristocratic.

Which regions strongly supported Jackson?

The South and West, especially small farmers, settlers, and workers.

What political change did Jackson’s election represent?

“Jacksonian Democracy” — greater popular participation and rise of the Democratic Party.

How did the enlarged franchise change government?

More representative, ordinary citizens had real influence in elections.

How did Jackson use presidential power differently?

Assertively, representing the people’s will and opposing the national bank.

What was the long-term impact of Jackson’s 1828 victory?

Solidified popular sovereignty, mass political campaigning, and voter engagement.

What nickname reflected Jackson’s toughness?

“Old Hickory.”

How was Jackson a “man of the people”?

He connected with farmers, settlers, and working-class voters against elites.

Why was Jackson known as strong-willed?

He challenged Congress and courts, and rarely compromised.

What showed Jackson’s combative personality?

His duels and confrontations, defending honor and authority.

What was “Jacksonian Democracy”?

A belief in empowering ordinary white men and opposing corruption and privilege.

How did Jackson view executive power?

As the representative of the people, using vetoes and strong authority.

Why did Jackson oppose the national bank?

He believed it benefited wealthy elites over common citizens.

What was the spoils system?

Appointing loyal supporters to government jobs, strengthening the Democratic Party.

What was Jackson’s Indian Removal policy?

Forcing Native Americans off their land to open it for white settlers.

What was the significance of Jackson’s personality and ideas?

Expanded participation for white men, strengthened the presidency, but revealed limits of democracy (e.g., Indian Removal).

How did Jackson and Van Buren transform politics?

They built the Democratic Party into a strong national organization.

How did the spoils system affect party politics?

Rewarded loyal supporters, reinforced party loyalty, but was controversial.

What replaced congressional caucuses for selecting candidates?

National party conventions, increasing participation and transparency.

What was Jackson’s Bank Veto (1832)?

He vetoed recharter of the Second Bank, claiming it favored elites.

What was the Indian Removal Act (1830)?

Law relocating Native Americans to allow white settlement in the Southeast.

What was the Nullification Crisis?

Conflict over tariffs; Jackson defended federal authority and populist policies.

How did Jacksonian political organization mobilize citizens?

Through strong party structures, campaigning, and mass participation.

How did Jackson shift the balance of government power?

He made the presidency the direct representative of the people.

What groups were excluded from Jacksonian democracy?

Women, Native Americans, and African Americans.

What was the long-term impact of the Jacksonian Era?

Created modern party politics, mass campaigning, and strengthened the Democratic Party.