key term - Corrupt Bargain

Definition

The Corrupt Bargain refers to the alleged agreement made during the 1824 presidential election in which John Quincy Adams was accused of striking a deal with Henry Clay to secure the presidency in exchange for appointing Clay as his Secretary of State. This event is often seen as a pivotal moment in American politics, as it raised concerns about the integrity of electoral processes and the influence of political elites, impacting the expanding democracy and shaping the role of federal power under Jackson's presidency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Corrupt Bargain occurred after the contentious 1824 election when no candidate won a majority in the Electoral College.
2. Andrew Jackson received the most popular and electoral votes but did not win the presidency, leading to accusations of corruption against Adams and Clay.
3. This event fueled Jackson's political rise, ultimately leading to his victory in the 1828 election and changes in American political dynamics.
4. The fallout from the Corrupt Bargain contributed to a growing distrust in political elites and increased demands for greater democratic participation.
5. The term 'Corrupt Bargain' has since become synonymous with any perceived unethical agreement between politicians that undermines public trust.

Review Questions

• How did the Corrupt Bargain impact public perception of political integrity in early 19th-century America?
  • The Corrupt Bargain significantly damaged public trust in political institutions by suggesting that elite politicians could manipulate outcomes for personal gain. Many citizens felt that Adams's victory was not reflective of the voters' will, leading to increased skepticism toward political elites. This skepticism fueled movements advocating for more democratic processes and greater transparency in government actions.
• Discuss the role that Henry Clay played in the events surrounding the Corrupt Bargain and its implications for his political career.
  • Henry Clay was instrumental in the House of Representatives' decision to elect John Quincy Adams despite Jackson's initial popularity. Clay's support for Adams was viewed as a betrayal by many, particularly Jackson's supporters, which ultimately tarnished his reputation. Although he became Secretary of State under Adams, this association with the Corrupt Bargain negatively impacted his future political endeavors and led to increased rivalry with Jackson.
• Evaluate how the Corrupt Bargain influenced Andrew Jackson's political strategies and the evolution of American democracy in the years following 1824.
  • The Corrupt Bargain motivated Andrew Jackson to adopt a populist approach, emphasizing his status as a man of the people against elite corruption. This shift laid the groundwork for broader democratic reforms during his presidency, including expanding suffrage and challenging entrenched political institutions. As a result, Jackson's legacy redefined American politics, promoting greater participation and ultimately changing how elections were conducted, leading to a more vibrant democracy.

Related terms

Election of 1824:

The presidential election where no candidate received a majority of electoral votes, leading to a decision by the House of Representatives.

Henry Clay:

A prominent political figure who played a key role in the 1824 election and later served as Secretary of State under John Quincy Adams.

Andrew Jackson:

The candidate who lost the 1824 election and was angered by the Corrupt Bargain, which propelled him to future political success and the presidency.