Second Two Party System 2020 - Google Slides

Introduction

  • Voice activated program for teaching.

  • Acknowledgment of students' hard work and care for their health and well-being.

Lesson 7: Antebellum Syllabus

  • Focus: The rise of common man democracy and the advent of the second two-party system.

  • Historical Context:

    • First two-party system in the 1790s: Federalists vs. Democratic Republicans.

    • Federalist party declined in early 1800s due to various factors (war with France, loss of credibility).

The Air of Good Feelings

  • Post-war of 1812: period of nationalism with one political party.

  • Transition into the second two-party system led by Andrew Jackson.

Jacksonian Democracy

  • Characterization as a new era of democracy; appears more inclusive on the surface.

  • Discussions on current parallels between Andrew Jackson and modern political figures, notably Donald Trump.

  • Shared traits: appeal to the public as anti-establishment figures.

Alexis de Tocqueville's Observations

  • Book: Democracy in America (1835)

  • Tocqueville's background as a French aristocrat and reaction to American democracy:

    • Political agitation originating from lower class extending through society.

    • Politics as a key concern and pleasure in American life.

    • Debating clubs mentioned as social centers.

  • Importance of egalitarianism noted, indicating a significant shift in political dynamics.

Davy Crockett's Advice to Politicians

  • Representation of the new democracy through anecdotes:

    • Attend public meetings and push for positions.

    • Importance of appealing to common folk: vote counts significant.

  • Description of a political campaign strategy focused on populism and engaging with the public in informal, relatable ways.

Shift in Political Power

  • First 6 presidents predominantly from Virginia or Massachusetts.

  • Jackson: first president born west of the Appalachians, symbolizing a shift in power.

  • Key reason for the shift: abolition of property qualifications leading to universal white male suffrage.

  • Discussion on impact of economic downturns and crisis (e.g., Panic of 1819).

The 1824 Election and the Corrupt Bargain

  • Unusual election where Jackson won the popular vote but lost in the electoral college to Adams.

  • Critical moment: true impact of the 'corrupt bargain' on American politics and perceptions of democracy.

  • Growing political divisions post-election signal the end of the air of good feelings.

The 1828 Election and the Rise of Jacksonian Democrats

  • Jackson's election viewed as revolutionary, establishing the new Jacksonian Democratic Party.

  • Characteristics of the new party: focus on common folks, resistance to elite interests.

The 1840 Election: The First Modern Campaign

  • Heavy voter turnout and emotional appeal over issue-based policies.

  • Harrison vs. Van Buren: significance in campaigning strategies utilizing slogans and populist themes.

Evolution of the Party System

  • Transition from the Federalist and Democratic-Republican parties to the emergence of the second two-party system (Whigs vs. Democrats).

  • Explanation of party alignments and ideologies both historically and contemporarily.

  • Historical context: shifts in party power and ideology in response to social and economic changes.

Conclusion

  • Reflection on the degree of democracy achieved during Jackson's era balanced with inherent limitations and exclusions.

  • Encouragement for students to contemplate the implications of this lesson and prepare for the next class.