OverviewThe lecture covers the period after the War of 1812, focusing on its consequences and the subsequent Era of Good Feelings. The War of 1812 set the stage for new political dynamics and changes in party systems.
War of 1812 and Treaty of Ghent
The war, fought between the United States and Great Britain from 1812 to 1815, concluded with the Treaty of Ghent, which stipulated a return to the status quo antebellum, indicating no clear winner or loser. No territories were exchanged, and the war had significant impacts despite its inconclusiveness, including fostering a sense of nationalism and encouraging domestic manufacturing due to trade interruptions.
Political Consequences of the War
Rise of New Political Heroes
Key figures emerged as national leaders during this time:
Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun: They were significant proponents of the war and became influential political figures advocating for national unity.
Andrew Jackson and William Henry Harrison: Both became famous military heroes, with Jacksonās victory at the Battle of New Orleans bolstering his reputation considerably. Their status would shape American politics for decades, with Jackson eventually becoming president and Clay serving as a notable Speaker of the House.
Decline of the Federalist Party
The Federalist Party, once the dominant political force in America, began losing support in the post-war era, marked by the Hartford Convention, where the party's opposition to the war was viewed as treasonous. Their decline signified a significant political shift from the first party system (Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans) to a new political landscape dominated by the Democratic-Republican Party.
Era of Good Feelings
This period is characterized by minimal partisan conflict due to the decline of the Federalist Party and the dominance of the Democratic-Republicans. However, despite its name, the era was marked by growing tensions, particularly regarding sectional divides over slavery and economic disparities.
Sectional Divisions in America
The Sectional Crisis during this time revolves around the deepening divide between free states and slave states, largely over the institution of slavery. The rise in the number of states and their status as free or slave became a significant political issue post-war, leading to increased fears of sectionalism that would soon threaten national unity.
James Monroe's Presidency
James Monroe served as president from 1816 to 1824, linking to the founding fathers while also embodying new political trends as a longtime Democratic-Republican. Monroe had a disdain for political parties; his presidency is noted for its call for national unity, yet undermined by underlying tensions concerning slavery and state rights.
Missouri Compromise of 1820
The Missouri Compromise was a pivotal legislative agreement addressing the contentious issue of Missouri's admission as a slave state. Key elements of the compromise included:
Missouri entering the Union as a slave state.
The creation of Maine as a free state to maintain congressional balance.
Establishment of the 36Ā°30' line, which prohibited slavery in new states north of this latitude.While it temporarily alleviated tensions, it foreshadowed future conflicts over the expansion of slavery into new territories.
Monroe Doctrine
The Monroe Doctrine established a significant policy opposing further European colonization in the Americas, asserting U.S. influence in the region while declaring that the U.S. would abstain from European affairs. This doctrine was a bold statement of policy, expecting European nations to respect U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere, illustrating the burgeoning sense of American exceptionalism.
Election of 1824
Candidates included:
John Quincy Adams: Academically experienced but viewed as detached from modern political sensibilities.
Andrew Jackson: Gained national popularity from his war fame but lacked formal political experience.
Henry Clay and William Crawford: Other prominent candidates, each bringing unique strengths and weaknesses to the race.
Election Outcomes
No candidate achieved a majority in the Electoral College, resulting in the House of Representatives deciding the outcome. John Quincy Adams won due to a political alliance with Clay, a decision perceived as a corrupt bargain by Jacksonās supporters, setting the stage for tensions in the subsequent election.
Election of 1828
The election was marked by a significant rise in the electorate's democracy; there was a substantial increase in voter turnout compared to 1824. Andrew Jackson decisively won by capitalizing on a broad base of support from new voters, notably many working-class men, signifying a shift towards populism in American politics.
Significant Campaign Themes
Jackson's campaign emphasized his image as a man of the people, while John Quincy Adams was framed as an elitist. This campaign was infamous for its mudslinging and personal attacks against both candidates, highlighting the growing polarization in American politics.
Jackson's Inauguration
Massive crowds of Jackson supporters celebrated his victory, leading to chaos at the White House. This event marked a profound shift in American politics, emphasizing the power of grassroots movements and the changing nature of political engagement in the United States.
Conclusion
The Era of Good Feelings, despite its name, sets the stage for future political divisions and significant changes in American governance, hinting at the conflicts that will arise during Jackson's presidency and the deepening divisions over the institution of slavery that will dominate the national conversation in the years to come.
Knowt
Note
Studied by 48 people
