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Rise of Democracy and the Modern Campaign
By the 1820s, most adult white men can vote in most states. Jackson convinces the common (white male) citizen, that their voice matters. You have a say and should have a say. This is not Hamilton of JQA’s America where the elite governs the mob. This is a party, and potentially a nation, of the people. Jackson says, “ I’ll protect you from Washington.” He said, “Only an outsider like me can fix the mess.” Didn’t say drain the swamp, but may as well have. -
Jackson's Image and the 1824 Election
Jackson, a Democrat, successfully managed his public image, a relatively new concept. The public knew him as a war hero and a man of the people. His opponent, John Quincy Adams, represented to many the old-guard elite. Jackson crushed Adams in the popular vote, winning the election. -
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Jackson's Presidency
Four major issues of Jackson's presidency: Spoils system Indian removal Tariff Bank -
The "Tariff of Abominations"
A punishingly high tariff designed not to pass but did. -
The "Spoils System"
A system of patronage and nepotism Jackson used to reward and protect his political allies. Became controversial in his second term. -
Trail of Tears
Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, forcing the relocation of thousands of Native Americans. Known as the "Trail of Tears -
Jackson and Nicholas Biddle: The Bank of the United States
Biddle was celebrated as a genius who had stabilized America's banking system after the Panic of 1819, but Jackson still did not trust the Bank of the US. When re-elected in 1832, Jackson refused to sign bank's renewed charter. -
Nullification Crisis: The Falling Out Between Jackson and VP Calhoun
Calhoun rejected Jackson's tariff: "IF the states came to gather and formed a voluntary compact, then, yes, the states can decide the validity of federal law, but, if a state determines that a law is unconstitutional, it can nullify the law. They can say it’s null and void and not follow.”