Amsco chapter 10

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Democrat and Whig parties emerged, reflecting the political shifts of the era.
Key issues included local governance, economic policies, and access for white males.

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.

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.