American Democracy: 1824–1840 in Depth Notes

Changes in Government-People Relationship

Democratic Principles:

• Popular Sovereignty: The belief that the government is accountable to the people. It highlights the idea that authority derives from the consent of the governed, emphasizing that decisions should reflect the will of the majority.

• Shift towards a more participatory political environment contributed to a larger segment of the population, particularly white males, being engaged in political processes, breaking free from inherited social ranks that once dominated governance.

Democratic Culture:

• Growing belief in societal equality emerged as a key principle. The notion that all individuals had equal rights generated a culture where class distinctions began to blur on social occasions.

• Change in dress codes noted; servants began to wear similar attire as the wealthy, symbolizing the increasing societal interchange and aspirations of the lower classes.

• However, persistent inequalities remained, especially in urban areas where industrialization heightened class divides and economic disparities became more apparent.

Political Institutions:

• By the 1820s, many voting barriers were removed for white males, enabling a broader participation in elections and leading to a surge in voter registration.

• The increased number of elective offices made participation central to political life, allowing citizens to engage directly in governance and decision-making processes.

• Festive Elections evolved, where political events became more elaborate and involved multiple stakeholders, including local community leaders and ordinary citizens, fostering a sense of involvement and celebration of democracy.

Jackson's Political Conflicts and Resolutions

Symbol of Democracy: Andrew Jackson represented the triumph of American democracy; his presidency marked significant political shifts and redefined national politics.

The Election of 1824:

• Candidates: John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, William Crawford, Andrew Jackson, each representing different regional and political interests.

• Result: Adams won in the House of Representatives amid accusations of a "corrupt bargain" from Jackson's supporters, alleging that Clay's endorsement of Adams in exchange for a cabinet position tainted the process.

Jackson's Strategies:

• Following his frustrating loss, Jackson built political support leading to the 1828 election success through dynamic campaigning, public rallies, and mobilization of popular opinion, creating a grassroots movement that involved various demographic groups.

• Tariff Conflicts: Jackson's supporters implemented a high tariff which angered southern free traders, a move seen as politically tactical to bolster northern industries at the expense of agrarian economies in the South.

Indian Removal Policy:

• Jackson advocated for relocating Native Americans westward, leading to severe consequences known today as the Trail of Tears, characterized by forced marches, significant loss of life, and deepened animosities.

• Legislative support: The Indian Removal Act (1830) facilitated this policy despite violating treaties and laws, reflecting the priorities of expansionist policies over indigenous rights.

The Nullification Crisis:

• Originated in South Carolina with the state's opposition to tariffs, resulting in a doctrine of nullification asserting that states could invalidate federal laws deemed unconstitutional.

• Jackson opposed nullification vehemently; he authorized military action to enforce federal laws, maintaining federal supremacy over state rights and preserving the Union amidst rising tensions.

The Bank War and Second-Party System

Bank of the United States:

• Founded in 1816; Jackson opposed it due to personal grievances and views on its unconstitutional operations, perceiving it as a symbol of elite privilege and corruption.

• Election of 1832: Jackson vetoed a recharter for the bank, framing his actions as rooted in popular support among the common populace, thereby reinforcing his public image as a champion of the ordinary citizen.

Opposition Formation:

• The Whig Party emerged, united against Jackson’s policies, marking the beginning of a serious two-party system that intensified political engagement and competition.

Economic Challenges:

• The Panic of 1837 led to widespread economic distress and blame directed at Jackson's administration, which influenced party dynamics and electoral outcomes in subsequent years.

Characteristics of the Two-Party System

Democrats vs. Whigs:

• Democrats: Favored limited government intervention, prioritizing personal liberties and equality, appealing particularly to smaller farmers and working-class individuals who sought to protect their interests from perceived government overreach.

• Whigs: Advocated for a proactive government role in economic growth, supporting policies designed to foster an elite-guided market economy and infrastructure development.

Political Dynamics:

• Both parties increased political participation and loyalty among followers who engaged in rallies and local politics, creating a politically aware citizenry that engaged actively in public affairs.

• The rivalry established frameworks for political engagement and tactics that still influence modern American politics, setting precedents for future electoral strategies and party organization.

Observations on American Democracy

Alexis de Tocqueville:

• Commented on the strengths and weaknesses of American democracy; he observed that while democratic principles flourished, there were significant challenges if rights were not extended to disenfranchised groups, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance for the health of democracy.