Jefferson through Jackson

10/30-4.2 The Rise of Political

Parties and the Era of Jefferson

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • Explain the causes and effects of policy debates in

the early republic.

THEMATIC FOCUS Politics and Power (PCE) Debates fostered by social and

political groups about the role of government in American social, political, and

economic life shape government policy, institutions, political parties, and the

rights of citizens.

Rise of Political Parties

Federalist vs. Democratic

Republicans

Alien and Sedition Acts passed

by the Federalists

Violated the 1st Amendment!

Kentucky and Virginia

Resolutions passed by

Democratic-Republicans

National political parties

continued to debate issues such

as the tariff, powers of the

federal government, and

relations with European powers.

Presidential Election 1800

Candiate

Popular Vote

Electoral Vote

Political Party

Jefferson

unknown

Dem-Rep

Adams

unknown

Fed

Burr

unknown

Dem-Rep

Pinkney

unknown

Fed

Jay

unknown

Fed

Election of 1800

Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr for the

Democratic-Republicans

John Adams and Charles Pinckney for the

Federalists

Jefferson and Burr had 73 votes each

NY makes the difference

Decisive in Jefferson’s victory was the 3/5

compromise (Slave power of the Southern

States)

Vote went to House of Representatives

Each state had 1 vote

Took 36 ballots over 7 days (Hamilton)

Adams last federalist president

12 Amendment (1804)

Separate voting (Electors) for President and

Vice President.

Revolution of 1800

Jefferson described [the

election] as being "as real a

revolution in the principles of our

government as that of 1776 was

in its form; not effected indeed

by the sword, as that, but by the

rational and peaceable

instrument of reform, the

suffrage of the people.“

Peaceful transfer of power from

the Federalists to the

Democratic-Republicans as

constitution intended. (political

parties)

Despite strong disagreements

between parties.

Greater appearance of popular

democracy- vote was decided

upon by the House of

Representatives, where

members are directly chosen by

the people.

Judiciary Act of 1801

Also known as Midnight Judges Act

Created 16 new judicial appointees on the federal circuit - (Keep power of

Federalists)

Dozens of new Justices of the Peace

Reduced the Supreme Court from 6 to 5 following the next vacancy

Adams Rapidly began to fill in the last weeks of his presidency.

These judges came to be known as the "Midnight Judges."

Adams up until midnight of when he was to leave office- signing the commissions of

Federalists Judges.

Marbury a midnight judge (Marbury v. Madison)

Adams Left in Middle of the night

Packing the court with Federalist Judges- lifetime posts

Jefferson Planned a Campaign of Impeachment remove federal judges

on court from Washington and Adams- Unsuccessful

Judiciary Act of 1789

Changed jurisdiction of Supreme Court (what cases the

Supreme Court can see) - important in Marbury v. Madison.

Section 13, which granted the Supreme Court the power to issue writs

of mandamus under its original jurisdiction

A (writ of) mandamus is an order from a court to a government official ordering

the government official to properly fulfill their official duties or correct an abuse of

discretion.

Marshall Court/Supreme Court

John Marshall- Chief Justice of

Supreme Court (1801-1835)

Appointed by Adams

Strengthen the Power of Federal

Government

Strengthen the power of Supreme

Court

Supreme Court decisions

established the primacy of the

judiciary in determining the

meaning of the Constitution

Asserted that federal laws took

precedence over state laws

Marbury v. Madison

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)

Thomas Jefferson

Third President

1801-1809

Political Party: Democratic-Republicans

Born: April 13, 1743 in Albemarle

County, Virginia

Died: July 4, 1826 in Monticello in

Virginia

Classis statement of democratic

principles-

“The will of the majority in all cases to

prevail”,

“The minority possess their equal rights,

which equal law must protect, and to

violate would be oppressive.

“We are all Federalists we are all

Republicans”- Jefferson Inaugural

Address

Virginia Dynasty- Democratic-Republican

Party

Thomas Jefferson

James Madison

James Monroe

Jefferson’s Vision for America

Agrarian Republic: Jefferson envisioned an agrarian, rural America where independent farmers

would uphold the republic's values. He believed this lifestyle fostered morality, independence, and

civic responsibility.

Strict Constitutionalism: Jefferson advocated for a strict interpretation of the Constitution, fearing

centralized power would undermine individual rights. However, his presidency saw instances where

he took broader constitutional interpretations (e.g., Louisiana Purchase).

Small Government: Jefferson aimed to reduce the size of the federal government by cutting taxes,

reducing the national debt, downsizing the military, and scaling back federal influence over states

and individuals.

Small military- distrust of standing army, maintain foreign policy of no entangling alliance

Informal Style of government

Reduction of Federal Influence: Jefferson cut back on federal bureaucracy, reduced military size,

and eliminated the excise tax on whiskey, signaling a move toward minimal federal intervention.

National Debt Reduction: Believing debt enslaved future generations, he and his Treasury

Secretary, Albert Gallatin, reduced government spending to pay down the national debt significantly.

Kept Hamilton plan intact except Excise Tax (Huge loss of Revenue)

Louisiana Purchase

Jeffersonian Vision – a nation of small

farmers

France, under Napoleon Bonaparte,

regained control of the Louisiana Territory

from Spain in 1800 with the Treaty of San

Ildefonso.

Could the Pinckney Treaty be repealed?

French control over such a large territory

could threaten

U.S. expansion

access to the Mississippi River and Port of New

Orleans a crucial trade route for western

farmers.

Napoleon was dealing with the Haitian

Revolt and impending war with Britain

Jefferson sends Robert Livingston to

purchase New Orleans from Napoleon

Napoleon’s agents offered all of

Louisiana to Livingston for $15 million

530 million sq/acres (3 cents per acre)

Monroe later arrived and joined the

negotiations, negotiating the deal rather

than waiting for instructions from

Jefferson

Double the Size of the United States

Removed European presence from Nations

Borders

Extended Western Frontier beyond the

Mississippi River

According to Jefferson and

Democratic-Republicans,

Government could only do what

was in the Constitution

Strict Constructionist

Constitution made no mention of

the US being able to purchase

territory from another nation by

treaty

Thomas Jefferson sends treaty

to senate for approval

Furious debate in the Senate

Passed 24-7

The Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806)

Background and Goals: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery,

aimed to explore and map the Louisiana Territory and find an all-water route to the Pacific. Thomas

Jefferson envisioned it as both a scientific expedition and a diplomatic mission to engage with

Native American tribes in the West.

Members and Support: The expedition was led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and

included soldiers, translators, and civilians, totaling around 33 men. The team received support from

local Native American tribes, including the Shoshone (led by Sacagawea, who served as a guide and

interpreter), Mandan, and Nez Perce.

Major Discoveries and Achievements:

Geographic Knowledge: The expedition provided valuable maps and detailed reports on the

topography of the West, significantly expanding Americans' geographic knowledge.

Scientific Findings: The team documented hundreds of new plant and animal species,

including prairie dogs, bison, and grizzly bears, and collected specimens for study.

Cultural Interactions: Lewis and Clark established diplomatic relations with numerous Native

American tribes, though they faced challenges when some tribes, like the Teton Sioux,

resisted their presence. These interactions set precedents for U.S. policies toward Native

Americans in the West.

Established diplomacy with native tribes

Documented new plants and animals – how could the area be exploited for commerce?

Maps laid additional claims- Oregon Terirory

Zebulon Pike in the southern Louisiana Territory

Impact on American Expansion: The expedition’s successful return in 1806 excited Americans about

western settlement. Their findings helped bolster the concept of Manifest Destiny and encouraged

further exploration, eventually leading to westward migration and settlement policies.

Following the Louisiana Purchase,

the U.S. government sought

influence and control over North

America through a variety of means,

including exploration and diplomatic

efforts

Jefferson Foreign Policy

Experience in dealing with foreign affairs

Success with the LA purchase

Difficulties Abroad

Avoid War

Reject Permanent Alliances

US Neutrality despite provocations from both France and Britain during

Napoleonic wars

The Barbary Wars (1801–1805)

Background of the Conflict: For years, North African Barbary states (Morocco, Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli) demanded

tributes from countries to prevent attacks on merchant ships in the Mediterranean. The U.S., previously under British

protection, was left vulnerable after independence.

Jefferson’s Stance: Unlike previous administrations, which paid these tributes, Jefferson refused to continue the payments,

seeing them as extortion. When Tripoli demanded higher tributes and declared war on the U.S., Jefferson sent the U.S. Navy

to the region.

Key Events:

Naval Battles: American forces blockaded Tripoli's ports, engaging in several confrontations with Barbary ships. The war saw

the rise of prominent American naval figures, such as Stephen Decatur, who led daring missions, including burning the

captured USS Philadelphia to prevent its use by Tripoli.

Marine Corps Role: The U.S. Marine Corps played a crucial role, and the line "to the shores of Tripoli" in the Marines' hymn

commemorates their actions during this conflict. The campaign marked the first major deployment of U.S. Marines abroad.

Resolution: In 1805, the conflict ended with a peace treaty, in which the U.S. paid a reduced ransom for prisoners but no

longer agreed to annual tributes. This set a precedent for U.S. policy to oppose piracy and extortion.

Legacy: The Barbary Wars established the U.S. as a naval power capable of protecting its commercial interests overseas. It

also demonstrated Jefferson’s commitment to assertive foreign policy despite his preference for small government and limited

military intervention.

Relations with European Powers

Impressment

British presence on the frontier

Supplying Native Americans

weapons

Warhawks in Congress

Federalist opposition

Chesapeake-Leopard Affair (1807):

Incident: The British warship HMS

Leopard attacked the American

frigate USS Chesapeake off the

coast of Virginia after the latter

refused to allow a search for

deserters. Several Americans were

killed, and others were impressed

into British service, sparking a

national outcry.

Response: Jefferson, constrained by

a limited navy and a desire to avoid

war, enacted economic sanctions

instead of military retaliation.

Embargo Act 1807

Embargo Act of 1807: Alternative to War

Intentions: The Embargo Act, which banned American ships from trading in all foreign ports,

was intended to pressure Britain and France by depriving them of American goods.

Economic Impact: The embargo devastated the U.S. economy, particularly in New England,

where port cities depended on international trade. Smuggling became rampant, and

resentment toward the federal government grew, especially among Federalists.

Political Consequences: The Embargo Act eroded Jefferson’s popularity and increased

divisions between Federalists, who criticized the measure, and Republicans. The Act was

seen as an example of federal overreach and ultimately failed to achieve its diplomatic goals.

Recognized a failure- Jefferson called for it’s repeal in 1809 (Final days in office)

Non-Intercourse Act of 1809: Recognizing the Embargo’s failure, Congress passed the

Non-Intercourse Act just before Jefferson left office. This act reopened trade with all nations except

Britain and France and offered to resume trade if either country stopped attacking U.S. shipping.

The Non-Intercourse Act was also largely ineffective, as it lacked the leverage to influence British

or French policies.

Legacy: These tensions contributed to a growing sense of American nationalism and desire to assert

independence from European interference. They also set the stage for the War of 1812 under

President James Madison, who inherited unresolved conflicts with Britain and France.

4.3 Politics and Regional

Interests and 4.4 America on the

World Stage

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • Explain how different regional interests affected

debates about the role of the federal government in the early republic.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • Explain how and why American foreign policy

developed and expanded over time

THEMATIC FOCUS Politics and Power (PCE) Debates fostered by social and

political groups about the role of government in American social, political, and

economic life shape government policy, institutions, political parties, and the

rights of citizens

THEMATIC FOCUS America in the World (WOR) Diplomatic, economic,

cultural, and military interactions between empires, nations, and peoples shape

the development of America and America’s increasingly important role in the

world

James Madison

Fourth President

1809-1817

Democratic-Republican

War of 1812

Born: March 16, 1751 in Port Conway, King

George, Virginia

Died: June 28, 1836 in Montpelier in Virginia

Foreign Policy

Presidency dominated by same problems that Jefferson had.

Attempted combination of diplomacy and economic pressure to

deal with Napoleonic war.

Embargo Repealed 1809

Non-Intercourse Act (1809)

The Non-Intercourse Act was also ineffective and led to further economic

difficulties.

Macon's Bill No. 2 (1810)- Restored US trade with Britain and France.

If either Britain or France formally agreed to respect US Neutral rights at sea, then

the U.S. would prohibit trade with that nation’s foe.

Napolean promise to lift trade restrictions (Re-establish embargo with Britain)

End of Neutrality and step toward war.

War of 1812

Causes of the War

Free Seas and Trade

Violation of US Neutral rights

British Attacking ships and Impressment of American Sailors:

This practice angered many Americans and was seen as a violation of

U.S. sovereignty.

Frontier Pressures

Support for Native American Resistance:

Settles Desire for Expansion and move westward- Conflict with NA

The British supported Native American tribes in their resistance against

American expansion into the Northwest Territory.

Tecumseh attempted to unite tribes east of Mississippi River

General William Harrison attack NA- Battle of Tippecanoe (1811)-

Defeated NA

British provided a little aid to Tecumseh- American blamed British for

instigating rebellion.

War Hawks:

Election of 1812- New young democratic republicans to Congress many

from Frontier states (KY, TN, OH)

A group of young, nationalist politicians in Congress, known as the War

Hawks (including Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun), pushed for military

action against Britain.

They framed the conflict as necessary for national honor and the

defense of American rights.

Declaration of war-

British delays in meeting U.S.

demands over neutral rights

combined with political pressure

of war hawks- Madison Seeks

Declaration of War

British agreement to suspend

naval blockade (June of 1812)-

reached Whitehouse after

declaration of war

“British cruisers have been in the continued practice of violating,

the American flag on the great highway of nations {the Atlantic

Ocean}, and of seizing and carrying off persons sailing under it…

British cruisers have been in the practice also of violating the rights

and peace of our coasts. They hover over and harass our entering

and departing commerce… our commerce has been plundered in

every sea, the great staples of our country have been cut off from

their legitimate markets….

- James Madison, War Message to Congress, 1812

War of 1812- Handout

Military Strength

Only about 7000 men in the

military at the start of the war

Britain had about 245,000

US had 16 warships & 1000 in

Navy

Britain had 600 ships & 130,000

men

Attacks to the North

Three point invasion –

Detroit, Niagara, Lake

Champlain

Battles along Great Lakes –

Battle of Thames River

War at sea

The 16 US Naval Warships

never lost a fight to a British

warship during the entire war

Privateers disrupted British

shipping

“Old Ironsides

US Constitution

Attack on Washington

British Navy sailed up the

Chesapeake Bay and Potomac

River, raiding Maryland farms for

supplies

The Burning of Washington,

D.C.:

In August 1814, British forces

captured Washington, D.C., and

set fire to public buildings,

including the White House and the

Capitol.

This was a low point for the U.S.

but rallied public support for the

war effort.

Attack on Baltimore

Fort McHenry defended the

port city

25 hour bombardment but fort

was intact and in US hands

(September 1814)

Inspired Francis Scott Key’s

The Star Spangled Banner

Battle of New Orleans:

Fought on January 8, 1815, after the Treaty of Ghent

had been signed, this battle was a decisive American

victory led by General Andrew Jackson.

Jackson arrived first and built fortifications from the

bales of cotton in the city’s warehouses

Uses militia, slaves & pirates for defense

Major British retreat (British lose 2600, US loses 13)

It boosted national pride

Jackson’s popularity, even though it occurred after

the war had officially ended.

Hartford Convention

New- England Extremists- seceding from the Union (Precedent for

future)

Dec 14, 1814 to Jan 5, 1815

A gathering of Federalist delegates from New England who opposed

the War of 1812

discussing grievances and proposing amendments to the

Constitution. (moderate)

Political problems related to increased federal power

New England delegates proposed

Financial Assistance from Washington- for lost trade

Const. Amendment- 2/3 vote for embargo to be imposed,

new states admitted or declaration of war

Abolish 3/5 compromise

Limit president to single term and no two presidents in a row

from same state.

Carried demands to DC- News of victory of New Orleans and Treaty

of Ghent

Complaints seemed petty and treasonous

End of Federalist Party

Treaty of Ghent

Met in Ghent, United Netherlands

Status quo antebellum (Pre-Civil

War)

Restored pre-war boundaries and

status quo, essentially ending the war

without territorial changes.

Failed to address the issues of

impressment or trade restrictions, but

both sides were eager to end the

conflict.

Signed Dec 24, 1814

Ratified in Britain Dec 30, 1814

Ratified by US Senate Feb 15, 1815

Outcomes and Significance

Nationalism and Identity:

The war fostered a sense of American nationalism and pride, contributing to a national identity separate from Britain.

It is often viewed as a second war of independence, affirming U.S. sovereignty.

Decline of the Federalist Party:

The Federalist Party, which had opposed the war and held the Hartford Convention, lost credibility and influence after the war.

This led to the dominance of the Democratic-Republican Party and the "Era of Good Feelings."

Economic Impact:

The war stimulated domestic manufacturing due to trade disruptions and encouraged self-sufficiency.

The U.S. began to invest in its infrastructure, including roads and canals.

U.S.-British Relations:

The War of 1812 marked the end of hostilities between the U.S. and Britain, leading to a long period of peaceful relations and trade.

Native American Consequences:

The war weakened Native American resistance against American expansion, leading to further loss of territory and autonomy.

Many tribes allied with the British lost their influence and land following the war.

Expansionism:

The desire for westward expansion grew after the war, as the U.S. sought to acquire new territories, including Florida (acquired in 1819)

and the Oregon Territory in later years.

James Monroe

became the 5th

President of the United

States.

(1817-1825)

Democratic-Republica

Born: April 28th, 1758

in Westmoreland

County, Virginia

Died: July 4, 1831 in

New York, New York

Domestic Policies

Boston paper declared this time to be an “Era of Good

Feelings.”

Phrase used to describe Monroe’s Presidency

National pride in country after the War of 1812. (Spirit of Nationalism, Optimism

and Goodwill)

One Major Political Party Democratic-Republicans

Adopted some Federalist programs

Misleading – era of debates over tariffs, National Bank, internal

improvement, selling of public lands, sectionalist tensions over

slavery.

Democratic Republicans would split into two political parties

Only lasted from 1816 to panic of 1819

Regional Differences

North, South and West

Northern expansion of factory

system

Western expansion of

agriculture

Southern expansion of cotton

production and slavery

Economic Nationalism

Political movement to support the growth of the Nation’s

economy

Henry Clay- American System: network of transportation united the country and

creating internal market. (Federal government money)

Economy was booming.

Tariff of 1816

First “protective” tariff – Express purpose of protecting US

Manufacturing from foreign competition

Only tariff supported by the southern states (needed for national

prosperity)

Henry Clay American System (Economic

Nationalism)

Proposed by Henry Clay, a comprehensive plan aimed to promote economic growth

through

A protective tariff to support American manufacturing.

A national bank to stabilize currency and provide credit

Internal improvements (roads, canals) to facilitate commerce and unify the nation.

Federally constructed roads and canals- Internal transportation system

Two parts clay’s plan already in place

Protective Tariff of 1816

Chartered Second Bank of United States

Madison and Monroe Objected to Federal funded Internal improvement

Vetoed

Federal government not in constitutional to do this…..

Benefit North more than South

Panic of 1819

First Major Financial Panic

(Economic Crash)

Overspeculation of Frontier Lands

2nd National Bank tightened credit

in effort to control inflation

Foreclosure farm mortgages

Bank Failures

Unemployment

Imprisonment of debtors

II. America Pushes West

Regional Economies Create Differences in the United States

Manufacturing North vs. Agriculture South

Conflicts over- Protective Tariff of 1816 and National Bank

Reason to move westward

Acquisition of lands

Economic Pressures

Northeast- New future in farming

Economic gain- land was plentiful, fertile and cheap.

South- New land to replace soil exhaustion, good land for cotton

Improved Transportation- Easier to reach frontier (Roads, Canals, steamboats and

railroads)

Immigration

When population reaches 60,000 the people of territory could petition the

Union for admission as a state. (Free or Slave state)

Congress attempted to keep balance between free and slave states (Senate)

HR Population bigger in North (1819- 105 to 81)

Increase tensions over Slavery- Expansion of slavery

Growing sectionalism (Pride in section rather than nation as whole)

Missouri Compromise

First state in “unoccupied” Louisiana territory – Missouri (Slave

State)

11 Free States and 11 Slave States

Tallmadge amendment

Prohibiting the further introduction of slaves into Missouri

Requiring children of MO slaves be emancipated at 25

Gradual elimination of slavery in MO

Defeated in Senate- Enraged Southerners seen as first step in

Northern effort to abolish slavery in all states

Henry Clay’s compromise – Missouri Compromise

Issue over slavery grew as Settlers moved westward

–Slave or Free.

Tensions rose in 1819 when Congress began

debating the admission of the state of Missouri to the

U.S.

11 Free and 11 slave states (Missouri wanted to be slave

state)

Ruin balance of free and slave states in senate.

Missouri Compromise of 1820

Maine admitted as a free state and Missouri was

admitted as a slave state.

Banned slavery in the part of the Louisiana purchase north

of 36 30N latitude.

These precedents showed congress had the

power ban slavery in new territories

Did not truly resolve issue- temporary solution

Preserved sectional balance for 30 years

Sectionalism vs. Nationalism

Highlighted issue over slavery

B. Missouri Compromise

C. Foreign Policy under Monroe

More aggressive and nationalistic approach

Expanded borders and asserted itself on the world stage.

John Quincy Adams (Secretary of State)

Canada

Rush-Bagot Treaty, 1817- Disarmament pact along great lakes between

Canada and US and limit border fortifications (longest unfortified border in

the world)

Treaty of 1818

Share fishing rights off the coast of Newfoundland

Joint occupation of Oregon territory for 10 years

Northern Limits of LA territory

Jackson Military Campaign 1817/1818- Conflict with Spanish

Florida

Adams–Onís Treaty aka Florida Purchase Treaty, 1819

Florida ceded by Spain

Spain surrendered claim to Oregon

In exchange agreed to assume $5 million in claims against Spain and

give up any US territorial claims to the Spanish province of Texas

Anglo-American Convention

Ten-year joint occupation of the Oregon Territory

Canada

Rush-Bagot Treaty, 1817- Disarmament pact along great lakes between

Canada and US and limit border fortifications (longest unfortified border in the

world)

Treaty of 1818

Share fishing rights off the coast of Newfoundland

Joint occupation of Oregon territory for 10 years

Northern Limits of LA territory

Jackson Military Campaign 1817/1818- Conflict with Spanish Florida

Adams–Onís Treaty aka Florida Purchase Treaty, 1819

Florida ceded by Spain

Spain surrendered claim to Oregon

In exchange agreed to assume $5 million in claims against Spain and give up

any US territorial claims to the Spanish province of Texas

C. Monroe Doctrine (1823)

Wanted to limit European influence in the Western

hemisphere

Preceded by numerous Spanish colonies declaring

independence

Spain plans to recover Latin American Colonies that had

declared Independence.

US had no means of enforcement – but British Navy didn’t

want to see Spain regain any power either (or any other

European nation)

Cornerstone of US foreign policy in Latin America (Do not

write with GB)

Not binding on future presidents but shaped foreign policy into

the 20th

Monroe Doctrine (1823)

Foundation of the U.S Foreign policy in the Western

Hemisphere -Provisions:

An end to European Colonization in the Western

Hemisphere

No intervention by Europe in existing nations in this

hemisphere

A declaration that European interference was “dangerous

to our peace and safety”

A promise of noninterference by the United States in

European affairs and European colonies.

Non-Colonization, Non-Intervention

Upheld Washington’s policy of avoiding entanglement in European power

struggles.

Self-Defense Doctrine-security of United States no LA)

U.S. more concerned with Domestic issues

11/12-TOPIC 4.7 Expanding

Democracy

THEMATIC FOCUS Politics and Power (PCE) Debates fostered

by social and political groups about the role of government in

American social, political, and economic life shape government

policy, institutions, political parties, and the rights of citizens.

The rise of a Democratic Society

White Majority In America- Belief in the principle of equality-

more precisely- equality of opportunity for White Males.

Equality of opportunity at least in theory- The Self-Made Man

Restriction on women and non-whites

Politics of the Common Man

1824-1840 Politics moved out of just the homes of the wealthy planters

and merchants. Dominated government in past eras

Spread of democracy- new suffrage laws, changes in political parties

and campaigns, improved education, increase of newspaper

circulation.

Politics moved into the homes of middle and lower class

Expanding Suffrage

Universal (White) Male Suffrage

Western States

Indiana (1816), Illinios (1818), and Missouri (1821)-

Constitutions all white males could vote and hold

office.

Most eastern states followed suit.

Property qualifications being lifted

Many states adopting Universal white male

suffrage

Some states adopted taxpayer qualifications

All White males could vote regardless of their

social class.

Increase of voting- Increase Democracy

350,000 in 1824 to 2.4 Million in 1840

Political office could be held lower and middle

class as well.

The nation’s transition to a more

participatory democracy was achieved

by expanding suffrage from a system

based on property ownership to one

based on voting by all adult white men,

and it was accompanied by the growth

of political parties.

Changes to Parties and Campaigns

Party Nominating

Convention

Past State Legislature or King

Caucus (a closed door meeting

of political leaders in congress)

Common citizens no opportunity

to participate

1830’s replaced by nominating

conventions- Party Politicians

and voters would gather in

large meeting hall to nominate

the parties candidates.

Method open to popular

participation- more democratic

Popular election of the

electors

By 1832 only the South used the

old system in which state

legislatures chose the electors for

president.

Voters chose state’s slate of

presidential electors (Winner take

all system)

Two-Party System

Popular election of electors

leads to large scale national

campaigns – need large

political parties

4 Rise of Third Parties

Only large parties could hope to win

the presidency (Democrats and

Whigs in 1830’s) are parties also

emerged.

Anti-Masonic Party and the

Workingmen’s party for example

Reached out to groups who previously

showed little interest in politics

5 More Elected offices

During the Jacksonian Era, a larger

proportion of state and local offices

were elected (not appointed).

Gave voters a greater voice and

government and increased

participation

6. Popular Campaigning

Large Rallies, Parades, marching

bands etc.

7. Spoils System and Rotation of

Officeholders

President Jackson believed in

appointing people to government

jobs who actively campaigned for the

Democratic party

Any previous holder of the office who

not a Democrat was fired and

replaced with loyal democrat.

Rotation of Office

Limiting a person to one term in

office, he could appoint some other

deserving democrat

Defended as rotation of office holders

as a democratic reform

one man was as good as another

and that ordinary Americans were

capable of holding office”

Federalists gone after 1816

Single Party control by the

Democratic Republicans

Split after 1824

Democrats and National

Republicans

National Republicans became

the Whigs

Election of 1824 and the Corrupt Bargain

Background

Era of Good Feelings: This period, following the

War of 1812, saw relative political harmony

under James Monroe, marked by the dominance

of the Democratic-Republican Party and a focus

on national unity.

End of One-Party Dominance: By 1824, the

Democratic-Republican Party was splintered, with

factions forming around different presidential

candidates, setting the stage for a contested

election.

Candidates and the Election

John Quincy Adams: Secretary of State and son of former

President John Adams. He was seen as a champion of national

economic development and favored federal funding for

infrastructure improvements (e.g., roads, canals).

Andrew Jackson: A war hero from the Battle of New Orleans and

a populist candidate, he appealed to the "common man" and was a

fierce critic of federal power, favoring states’ rights.

Henry Clay: Speaker of the House and a proponent of the

"American System," advocating for a strong national bank,

protective tariffs, and federally funded infrastructure to promote

economic development.

William Crawford: Secretary of the Treasury, favored by the

traditional southern wing of the Democratic-Republicans, who

supported limited federal government and states' rights.

Election of 1824 (131 Needed to win)

Election of 1824

Candidate

Popular Vote

Electoral Vote

Jackson

153,544

Adams

108,740

Crawford

46,618

Clay (Speaker

of the House)

47,136

Election Results

No Electoral Majority: Although

Jackson won the most popular and

electoral votes, he did not secure the

majority of the electoral votes required

to win outright.

House of Representatives Decision:

Under the 12th Amendment, the

election was decided in the House of

Representatives,

where they would choose from the top

three candidates:

The "Corrupt Bargain"

Clay's Influence and Alleged Deal: Clay supported John Quincy Adams, reportedly due to their

shared belief in the American System. This led to accusations that the two had struck a "corrupt

bargain."

Outcome: Adams won the vote in the House and became the 6th President of the United States.

Shortly after, he appointed Clay as his Secretary of State.

Public Backlash: Jackson and his supporters labeled this as a "Corrupt Bargain," claiming that

Clay and Adams had manipulated the election outcome. This accusation cast a shadow over

Adams' presidency and fueled Jackson's political campaign for 1828.

Significance and Aftermath

Division and Formation of Political Parties: The controversy over the 1824 election led to the

formation of the Democratic Party under Jackson’s leadership, while Adams and his supporters

eventually coalesced into the National Republican Party, later becoming the Whigs.

Shift to Popular Democracy: The public outrage over the "Corrupt Bargain" helped ignite a movement

toward greater political participation and the rise of Jacksonian Democracy, emphasizing the role of the

common citizen in politics.

Jackson’s Victory in 1828: The accusations against Adams and Clay galvanized Jackson’s

supporters, leading to his victory in the 1828 election. Jackson’s win represented a triumph for the

populist movement and a decisive shift in American politics.

Second Party System

Developed primarily after the

election of 1824

Developed from popular

support for a presidential

candidate (Jackson) vs. those

who opposed him

Regional differences

Popular campaigning

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TOPIC 4.8 Jackson and Federal Power

THEMATIC FOCUS Politics and Power (PCE) Debates fostered

by social and political groups about the role of government in

American social, political, and economic life shape government

policy, institutions, political parties, and the rights of citizens.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • Explain the causes and effects of

continuing policy debates about the role of the federal

government from 1800 to 1848.

Election of 1828

Presidential

candidate

Party

Home state

Popular vote(a)

Electoral

vote

Count

Percentage

Andrew Jackson

Democratic

Tennessee

638,348

55.33%

178

John Quincy

Adams (incumben

National

Republican

Massachusetts

507,440

43.98%

Other

7,991(b)

0.69%

—

Total

1,153,779

100%

261

Needed to win

131

Turning point in the American

political landscape,

Shift from the Era of Good

Feelings (dominated by the

Democratic-Republican Party)

More organized two-party system,

Jackson’s Democratic Party and

Adams’ National Republican

Party (the precursor to the Whig

Party).

Populist Appeal of Jackson:

Jackson ran as a champion of the “common

man,” positioning himself against what he

called the corruption and elitism of

Washington, D.C.

He appealed to the growing population of

landowning white men, especially in the West

and South

voting requirements had been relaxed to

include more non-landowning white

men (Expansion of Electorate)

shifting the political power

towards a more populist

electorate

resonated with voters who saw him as

one of their own, in stark contrast to the

aristocratic image of Adams.

Dirty Campaign Tactics:

Both sides used mud-slinging and personal

attacks more intensely than in any previous

election,

marking the beginning of what became

known as the “modern” political

campaign.

Jackson’s Campaign: Focused on portraying

Adams as elitist, corrupt, and out of touch.

Adams’ Campaign: Attacked Jackson’s

character and past, including accusations of

adultery related to Jackson’s marriage to his

wife, Rachel.

Shortly after the election, Jackson’s wife, Rachel,

passed away:

he believed was due to the stress caused by the personal attacks

on her character during the campaign.

Her death had a profound effect on Jackson and intensified his

bitterness toward the political establishment.

Jackson won a decisive victory in

both the popular vote and the

Electoral College, with a popular

vote of about 56% to Adams'

44%.

Andrew Jackson

Seventh President

1829-1837

Democratic

Born: March 15, 1767 in

Waxhaw, South Carolina.

(Tennessee)

Died: June 8, 1845 at the

Hermitage near Nashville,

Tennessee.

Known as the first "common

man" president

Expanded presidential power

and changed American politics

Essential Question:

Champion of

the

“Common Man”?

“King”

Andrew?

Expanding Presidential Power

Presented himself as reprenstative of the people and

protector of Common Man.

Jackson believed in a strong executive branch

Opposed Increase Government spending and National

Debt.

Interpereted power of congress narrow

Used presidential veto more than all previous

presidents combined (12)

Bypassed his cabinet, relying on informal advisors

(Kitchen Cabinet)

Appointed Cabinet had less influence

Maysville Road Veto

Rejected Clay’s internal

improvements

Claimed elitism and

favoritism;

going against Jeffersonian

politics

Viewed as only benefitting

Kentucky as the whole road

was entirely in the state

The Peggy Eaton Affair

Social scandal involving Secretary of War John Eaton's

wife, Peggy

Other cabinet wives refused to socialize with Peggy due

to rumors- Tried to force his cabinet wives to accept

Peggy.

Most of his cabinet resigned

Contributed to resignation of Jackson’s vice president

John C. Calhoun.

The Spoils System

Jackson introduced the "spoils

system" in federal appointments

Replaced many government officials

with his supporters

Claimed this would prevent

corruption and bring in fresh ideas

Political Patronage

Strong political party loyalty

Rotation of Office

Limiting a person to one term in

office, he could appoint some other

deserving democrat.

Defended as rotation of office

holders as a democratic reform

By getting rid of permanent

office-holding class, he

opened government to

more citizens.

Ordinary Citizens should

play a more prominent role

in government.

“Every Man is a good as his

neighbor” perhaps “equally

better”

Supports image champion of

people.

Indian Removal

Context: By the 1820s and 1830s, white settlers were pushing into the southeastern United States, territory

traditionally occupied by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and

Seminole (“Five Civilized Tribes”. The land was desirable for agricultural development, especially for cotton, a

cash crop driving economic growth in the South.

Jackson’s Perspective: Jackson argued that Native American tribes could not coexist with the rapidly expanding

U.S. population and that removing them was the only solution to prevent conflicts between settlers and tribes. He

claimed it would protect Native American culture by relocating tribes to lands where they could maintain their

way of life.

Indian Removal Act: Passed by Congress in 1830, this act gave Jackson the power to negotiate treaties with tribes

to exchange their lands east of the Mississippi River for lands in the west (present-day Oklahoma). While the act

was framed as "voluntary," there was immense pressure on tribes to relocate.

Forced Resettlement of many Thousand of Native Americans West of Mississippi River

Bureau of Indian Affairs created 1836 to assist in resettlement

Ga and other states passed laws requiring Cherokee to migrate

west.

Cherokee challenged GA in Courts

Cherokee Nation v. Georgia (1831) – Supreme court ruled that the

Cherokee were not a foreign nation and therefore not allowed to sue

in federal court

Worcester v. Georgia (1832) – Supreme Court ruled that Georgia

laws did not apply in Cherokee territory

Clash between state and federal

Jackson angered by Supreme Court rulings and sided with the states

– said “John Marshall has made his ruling, now let him enforce it”

Court powerless to enforce it decision without President support

Trail of Tears

Trail of Tears (1838): Though the removal wasn’t fully

enforced until Martin Van Buren’s administration, Jackson’s

policy set it in motion.

US Army forcibly removed 15,000 Cherokees

from Georgia and forced them to march from

Georgia to Oklahoma/Kansas area

4,000 of the 16,000 Cherokee died from

harsh conditions, disease, and starvation.

Consequences: The policy resulted in widespread loss of

Native American life, culture, and territory. The forced

relocations remain one of the darkest aspects of U.S.

history, often viewed as an act of ethnic cleansing.

The Nullification Crisis

Conflict over tariffs between federal government and

South Carolina

South Carolina threatened to nullify federal tariffs and

secede

Jackson threatened military action to enforce federal

law

How did this crisis test the balance between state and

federal power?

Nullification Crisis (1832-1833)

Background on Tariffs:

Congress had passed the Tariff of 1828 (labeled the “Tariff of Abominations” by Southerners), which imposed

high duties on imported goods.

The South, particularly South Carolina, opposed the tariff, as it benefited northern manufacturers at the expense of

southern economies dependent on imported goods and exports of raw materials.

Jackson favored states rights but not disunion.

Theory of Nullification: Vice President John C. Calhoun, a South Carolinian,

which posited that states had the right to nullify federal laws deemed unconstitutional. This doctrine was based on the idea that the Union was a compact

between sovereign states.

Webster- Hayes Debates

South Carolina’s Ordinance of Nullification (1832):

South Carolina passed the Ordinance of Nullification, declaring the 1828 and 1832 tariffs null and void within the

state. It also threatened secession if the federal government attempted to enforce the tariffs.

Jackson’s Response: Jackson, despite being a Southerner and

a states' rights advocate, was firmly opposed to nullification

and viewed it as a threat to the Union.

Proclamation to the People of South Carolina

declared nullification incompatible with the existence of the Union

and stated that disunion by armed force is treason.

Force Bill (1833):

Jackson requested and received congressional approval for the

Force Bill, which authorized him to use the military to enforce

federal laws in South Carolina if necessary.

Compromise and Resolution:

Henry Clay, known as the “Great Compromiser,”

proposed a compromise tariff that would gradually

reduce the tariff rates over the next decade, easing

South Carolina’s economic concerns.

South Carolina rescinded its nullification ordinance

after the passage of the Compromise Tariff of 1833,

averting conflict and preserving the Union for the time

being.

The crisis underscored the tensions between state

and federal authority and foreshadowed future

conflicts over states' rights and secession, which

would eventually culminate in the Civil War.

The Bank War (1832-1836)

The Second Bank of the United States – Powerful

Institution

regulated credit,

provided loans,

managed government deposits.

Many Americans, particularly Jackson and his

supporters, viewed the bank as an elitist institution

primarily benefited the wealthy and wielded too much

influence over the economy.

Jackson believed the Bank was unconstitutional,

despite the earlier McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

decision affirming its constitutionality.

Jackson’s Opinion of Bank

it was unconstitutional

Private Institution not accountable to people

Elite circle of money investors

Extreme amount of power- almost like a branch of

government

Nicholas Biddle- Powerful

it concentrated an excessive amount of the

nation's financial strength into one single

institution;

it exposed the government to control by

"foreign interests";

it exercised too much control over members of

the U.S. Congress;

it favored northeastern states over southern

and western (now mid-western) states. ELITE

Foreclose on many western farms

The National Bank

Debate

Nicholas

Biddle

[an arrogant

aristocrat from

Philadelphia]

President

Jackson

Henry Clay and Nicholas Biddle, president of

the Bank, applied for an early renewal of the

Bank’s charter in 1832.

This was seen as a political maneuver by Biddle and

Jackson’s opponents (including Henry Clay) to force

Jackson to either support the Bank or veto it during

his re-election campaign.

Jackson’s Veto: Jackson vetoed the recharter

bill,

strong statement that condemned the Bank as a

corrupt institution that promoted inequality and

concentrated wealth among a privileged few.

His veto message framed the issue as one of

common people versus the elites, appealing to his

populist base.

Election of 1832 popularity helped him

secure re-election over Henry Clay, further

legitimizing his stance against the Bank.

Pet Banks” and Economic Consequences:

After his re-election, Jackson ordered the withdrawal of federal funds from the Bank and deposited them into

various state banks, referred to as "pet banks," which were often loyal to Jackson and the Democratic Party.

Specie Circular (1836): To combat inflation resulting from the increase in paper currency issued by pet banks,

Jackson issued the Specie Circular, requiring land purchases to be made in gold or silver (specie). This move

attempted to curb speculative buying of land but led to a shortage of hard currency, especially in the West.

Bank Notes lost their value and land sales plummeted

Panic of 1837

The destabilization of the financial system, lack of a central regulatory institution, and Jackson's Specie Circular contributed to the economic downturn

known as the

The panic, which struck early in Martin Van Buren’s presidency, led to widespread bank failures, high unemployment, and a deep economic recession that

lasted for several years.

The Rise of the Two-Party System

Jackson's policies led to

the formation of the

Democratic Party

His opponents formed the

Whig Party (Henry Clay)

Marked the beginning of

the Second Party System

in American politics

Legacy of Andrew Jackson's Presidency

Expanded democracy for white male citizens

More direct relatioship between president and public

Strengthened the power of the presidency (Executive Branch)

Social and Economic Consequences: His policies contributed to

the forced removal of Native Americans, instability in the financial

system, and the future conflicts over states' rights and slavery.

Shift in American politics toward a more populist and

executive-centered government,

setting the stage for future conflicts in the antebellum