Amsco chapter 10

The Age of Jackson, 1824-1844

• The era is characterized by the emergence of popular politics and the presidency of Andrew Jackson.

• Often referred to as the Age of the Common Man or Jacksonian Democracy.

• Historians debate Jackson's role: major molder of events, political opportunist, or symbol of the era.

Jacksonian Democracy

• The political changes paralleled social and economic transformations.

The Rise of a Democratic Society

• Alexis de Tocqueville noted informal manners and democratic attitudes in the U.S.

• Social settings like hotels and transportation modes reflected equality among classes.

• Clothing styles among the classes blurred social differences: simpler styles were popular among all.

• Despite these democratic shifts, racial inequalities persisted; equality was mostly about opportunity for white males.

• The concept of a "self-made man" indicated social mobility for young white males.

Politics of the Common Man

Expansion of Democracy (1824-1840)

• Shift away from elite politics of the wealthy to middle and lower classes.

• Factors in expanding democracy:

  • New suffrage laws, changing political parties and campaigns, improved education, increased newspaper circulation.

Universal Male Suffrage

• New states adopted constitutions allowing suffrage for all white males without restrictions.

• Voting for presidency surged from 350,000 in 1824 to over 2.4 million in 1840 due to these changes.

Party Nominating Conventions

• Transition from state legislature nominations to open nominating conventions.

• Increased participation of common citizens marked this transition.

Popular Election of the President

• Most states allowed voters to choose electors by the presidential election of 1832; only South Carolina maintained the previous system.

Two-Party System

• Emerged from the popular election of electors, needing organized campaigns.

• Rise of third parties like the Anti-Masonic and Workingmen's parties appealed to uninterested groups.

More Elected Offices

• Increased number of state and local officials elected rather than appointed, leading to more public interest.

Popular Campaigning

• Campaigns became local entertainment with parades and free provisions, often involving personal attacks over issues.

• The spoils system allowed job allocation based on party loyalty, reinforcing party organization.

Jackson vs. Adams

• The election of 1824 marked political turmoil, with Jackson winning popular votes but losing in the House of Representatives due to a split.

• Jackson labeled the outcome a "corrupt bargain" when Adams appointed Henry Clay as his secretary of state.

The Election of 1828

• The smear campaign against both candidates resulted in high voter turnout; Jackson won significantly due to his popular image as a war hero.

The Presidency of Andrew Jackson

Leadership Style

• Jackson viewed as a representative of the common man and protector against the elite.

• Advocated for the frugality in government spending and strict interpretation of federal power.

Key Policies and Events

• Kitchen Cabinet: Informal group advising Jackson, sidelining the official cabinet.

• Peggy Eaton Affair: Social tension leading to cabinet resignations and political reshuffling.

• Indian Removal Act (1830): Policy enforcing relocation of Native Americans to lands west of the Mississippi; resulted in tragedies like the Trail of Tears.

Nullification Crisis

• South Carolina's declaration against tariffs led to tensions; Jackson championed federal authority and negotiated a resolution.

Security and Bank Policies

Veto of the Bank

• Jackson's opposition to the Bank of the United States led to a veto when recharter attempts occurred, branding it a monopoly serving the wealthy.

• His victory in the 1832 election confirmed popular backing for his policies.

Economic Consequences

• Pet Banks: Jackson's withdrawal of federal funds from the Bank of the United States to state banks led to issues with currency value.

• Specie Circular: Attempt to stabilize currency by requiring land purchases in gold or silver.

Political Landscape Post-Jackson

The New Two-Party System

• Democrat and Whig parties emerged, reflecting the political shifts of the era.

• Key issues included local governance, economic policies, and access for white males.

Jackson's Legacy in Politics

• The election of 1836 saw the Democrats electing Martin Van Buren post-Jackson.

• The Panic of 1837 and subsequent Whig campaign of 1840 highlighted political shift and public discontent.

Historical Perspectives on Jacksonian Democracy

• Debates over whether Jackson represented truly democratic reforms or threatened the Republic.

• 20th-century analyses indicate Jackson's coalition included diverse groups challenging emerging capitalism.

• Historical note on increasing voter participation prior to and up to the 1840 election.