Jacksonian Era Notes

Post-War Changes in the U.S.

  • Economic Expansion: Growth in various sectors post-War of 1812.
  • Significant Immigration:
    • Major influx from Germany, England, and Ireland.
    • Concerns about cultural and economic changes.
  • Territorial Expansion:
    • Political influence shifted westward.
    • Adams-Onís Treaty (1819) ceded Florida to the U.S.
    • Missouri Compromise (1820):
    • Missouri as a slave state, Maine as a free state.
    • Established 36°30' parallel as slavery line for future states.

Jacksonian Democracy

  • Andrew Jackson: Controversial figure, won elections in 1828 & 1832.
    • War of 1812 veteran, famous for Battle of New Orleans.
    • Seen as a self-made man and a Tennessee slave owner.
  • Debate over Jackson:
    • Populist or authoritarian?
    • Did he expand or increase inequality for citizens?

Changes in Executive Power

  • Presidential Power Increased:
    • Belief in a stronger presidency over Congress.
    • Frequent use of veto as policy tool.
  • Voting Rights Expansion:
    • Fought to reduce property qualifications for white men.
    • Racial restrictions disenfranchised free Black men.
  • Champion of the Common Man?
    • Supported rural farmers and urban laborers (white men).
    • Racial inequalities persisted and worsened.

Political Parties

  • Democrats:
    • Jackson’s followers; against elitism.
    • Supported small government and separation of church/state.
  • Whigs:
    • Businessman support; favored a stronger federal government.
    • Some advocated for abolition of slavery.
  • Partisanship:
    • Increasing professional politics; corruption and patronage.

Nullification Crisis (1832)

  • State vs. Federal Power:
    • South Carolina’s opposition to federal tariffs.
    • Declaration of null and void; threats of secession.
    • Jackson’s strong military response; compromise negotiated by Henry Clay.

The Bank War

  • Bank of the U.S.:
    • Established to manage government finances; second charter opposed by Jackson.
  • Jackson’s Opposition:
    • Viewed it as elitist; vetoed recharter despite a Supreme Court ruling.
  • Consequences:
    • Panic of 1837; bank failures due to economic instability.

Controversies of the Era

  • Slavery Debates: Intensified during Jackson’s presidency.
  • Indian Removal Act (1830): Authorized forced removal of Native tribes.
  • Trail of Tears (1838): Forced Cherokee relocation; significant casualties.
  • Expanded Executive Power:
    • Supporters viewed Jackson as a strong leader; critics saw tyranny.