Andrew Jackson

Definition

Andrew Jackson was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837, and is known for his role in shaping American politics during a pivotal period. His presidency marked a significant shift toward populism and the expansion of democracy, often referred to as the 'Jacksonian Era.' His influence extended beyond just policies; he transformed the Democratic Party and set the stage for major realigning elections in U.S. history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Andrew Jackson was a military hero, known for his victory at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, which boosted his popularity.
2. Jackson's presidency is often associated with the rise of populism, where he positioned himself as a champion of the 'common man' against established elites.
3. He introduced practices such as the spoils system, which rewarded political supporters with government jobs, fundamentally changing how political appointments were made.
4. Jackson's policies led to significant conflict with Native Americans, culminating in the Indian Removal Act, which forcibly relocated thousands from their lands.
5. His opposition to the Second Bank of the United States was a hallmark of his presidency, leading to its eventual demise and influencing economic policy for years to come.

Review Questions

• How did Andrew Jackson's presidency influence the development of American democracy during his time?
  • Andrew Jackson's presidency significantly influenced American democracy by promoting populist ideals and expanding participation among white male voters. He championed the rights of common citizens against elite interests and implemented reforms that made voting more accessible. These changes laid the groundwork for future realigning elections by shifting political power dynamics and encouraging grassroots movements.
• Analyze the implications of Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Act on Native American communities and U.S. policy.
  • The Indian Removal Act had profound implications for Native American communities, as it authorized the forced relocation of tribes from their ancestral lands to designated territories west of the Mississippi River. This policy led to immense suffering and loss of life, exemplified by events like the Trail of Tears. It also established a pattern in U.S. policy that prioritized expansionist goals over indigenous rights, affecting relations between the government and Native Americans for generations.
• Evaluate how Andrew Jackson's actions during the Nullification Crisis reflected broader tensions in American society regarding federal versus state authority.
  • During the Nullification Crisis, Andrew Jackson's strong stance against South Carolina's attempt to nullify federal tariffs illustrated broader tensions between state rights and federal authority in America. By asserting federal supremacy, Jackson underscored his commitment to maintaining national unity while facing sectional dissent. This conflict not only highlighted regional disparities but also set a precedent for future debates over states' rights that would culminate in later national conflicts, including the Civil War.

Related terms

Democratic Party: The political party that Andrew Jackson helped to establish and shape, emphasizing the rights of the common man and opposing elitism.

Indian Removal Act: A law passed in 1830 under Jackson's presidency that led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands, notably resulting in the Trail of Tears.

Nullification Crisis: A confrontation between South Carolina and the federal government during Jackson's presidency over state vs. federal authority, highlighting sectional tensions.