The Jacksonian Era

Randy Vice,

B.S.E., Jacksonville State University

M.A., The University of Alabama

EdS. , Lincoln Memorial University

I. Historical Context

A. Post-War of 1812 Growth
- Expansion of U.S. territory.
- Growth of nationalism and economic development.
B. Era of Good Feelings
- Decline of the Federalist Party.
- Dominance of the Democratic-Republicans.

A. Jackson's Early Life
- Born in poverty; military hero in the War of 1812 (Battle of New Orleans).
B. Election of 1824
- Controversial "Corrupt Bargain" and defeat by John Quincy Adams despite winning the popular vote.
C. Formation of the Democratic Party
- Jackson and his supporters created a coalition opposing Adams and Henry Clay.

A. Expansion of Democracy
- Introduction of universal white male suffrage (elimination of property requirements).
- Rise of the "common man" in politics.
B. Spoils System
- Rotation in office to reward loyal supporters.
- Criticized for corruption and cronyism.
C. Indian Removal Policy
- Indian Removal Act (1830): Forced relocation of Native Americans to lands west of the Mississippi.
- Trail of Tears: Devastating impact on Cherokee Nation and other tribes.
D. Nullification Crisis (1832–1833)
- Conflict with South Carolina over tariff policies (Tariff of Abominations).
- Jackson’s strong stance against secession and nullification; use of the Force Bill.
E. Bank War
- Opposition to the Second Bank of the United States.
- Veto of the bank's recharter and transfer of federal funds to "pet banks."
- Economic consequences, including the Panic of 1837.
F. Expansion and Infrastructure
- Limited federal involvement in infrastructure projects (e.g., veto of Maysville Road Bill).
- Continued westward expansion of U.S. territories.

A. Rise of Jacksonian Democracy
- Increased political participation by average citizens.
- Shift away from elitist politics.
B. Market Revolution
- Growth of transportation networks (canals, railroads).
- Expansion of industry and commerce.
C. Slavery and Sectionalism
- Slavery remained a contentious issue during this period.
- Growing division between the North and South over economic and social systems.

A. Second Party System
- Emergence of the Whig Party in opposition to Jackson’s policies.
B. Populist Legacy
- Inspired future populist movements by emphasizing the role of the people in governance.
C. Critiques of Jackson
- Seen as a champion of democracy by supporters.
- Criticized as an authoritarian leader by opponents, labeled "King Andrew I."

A. Election of Martin Van Buren (1836)
- Jackson's successor and continuation of his policies.
B. Panic of 1837
- Economic crisis resulting partly from Jackson’s financial policies.
C. Long-term Impact
- Shaped U.S. politics and culture leading into the antebellum period.