Jacksonian Democracy

Definition

Jacksonian Democracy refers to the political philosophy and era associated with President Andrew Jackson from the 1820s to the 1840s, emphasizing greater democracy for the common man and the belief in the importance of the average citizen in government. This movement expanded suffrage, promoted the idea of the 'self-made man,' and sought to dismantle elitism in politics, reflecting a growing sentiment against established institutions and advocating for broader participation in democracy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jacksonian Democracy marked a shift from a government dominated by elites to one that emphasized popular participation and the rights of the average citizen.
2. During this period, many states expanded voting rights to include white men who did not own property, significantly increasing voter turnout.
3. Andrew Jackson's presidency was characterized by his opposition to the Second Bank of the United States, which he viewed as a symbol of elite corruption and favoritism.
4. The era saw the rise of new political practices, including nominating conventions, which replaced caucus systems and allowed more direct input from party members.
5. Jacksonian Democracy also had a darker side, as it often marginalized Native Americans and supported policies that led to their displacement and removal from ancestral lands.

Review Questions

• How did Jacksonian Democracy change the political landscape of America in terms of voter participation?
  • Jacksonian Democracy significantly altered the political landscape by expanding suffrage to a broader segment of white men, removing property ownership as a voting requirement in many states. This shift increased voter participation and reflected a growing belief that government should be more accessible to ordinary citizens rather than just elites. The changes made during this time laid the foundation for future expansions of democratic rights in America.
• Evaluate how Andrew Jackson's opposition to the Second Bank of the United States embodied the principles of Jacksonian Democracy.
  • Andrew Jackson's opposition to the Second Bank exemplified his commitment to Jacksonian Democracy by showcasing his belief that concentrated financial power threatened individual liberties and equality. He viewed the bank as a tool for elites to maintain control over the economy at the expense of common citizens. By vetoing its recharter and withdrawing federal funds, he aimed to dismantle an institution he considered undemocratic, thus aligning his actions with the movement’s emphasis on populism and distrust of established institutions.
• Analyze the contradictions within Jacksonian Democracy regarding its promotion of individual rights while simultaneously marginalizing certain groups.
  • Jacksonian Democracy is marked by a significant contradiction: while it advocated for increased political rights and participation for white male citizens, it simultaneously marginalized groups such as Native Americans and African Americans. Policies like the Indian Removal Act reflected this tension, prioritizing expansion and white settlers' rights over Indigenous peoples' sovereignty. This duality highlights how movements toward greater democracy can coexist with systemic oppression, demonstrating that progress for one group often comes at a cost to another.

Related terms

Suffrage: The right to vote in political elections, which expanded significantly during the Jacksonian era as many states removed property requirements for voting.

Democratic Party: The political party that emerged during the Jacksonian era, founded on principles of populism and advocating for the rights of the common people.

Spoils System: A practice initiated by Andrew Jackson where political supporters were rewarded with government jobs, seen as a way to democratize government but also criticized for leading to corruption.