Andrew Jackson

Definition

Andrew Jackson was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837. Known for his populist approach and strong leadership, he played a significant role in shaping American politics during the early 19th century, particularly through his controversial policies regarding Native American removal and his efforts to represent the common man against the elite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jackson was a strong advocate for the 'common man' and believed that government should be more accessible to ordinary citizens, which contributed to the rise of populism in American politics.
2. His presidency marked the era of Jacksonian Democracy, characterized by an expansion of suffrage and increased political participation for white male voters.
3. Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal policies led to the tragic Trail of Tears, where thousands of Native Americans were forcibly displaced, resulting in thousands of deaths due to exposure, disease, and starvation.
4. He famously opposed the Second Bank of the United States, viewing it as a corrupt institution that favored the wealthy elite over ordinary citizens, which led to its eventual demise.
5. Jackson's presidency was marked by intense political polarization, which included conflicts with Congress and challenges from opposing parties that laid the groundwork for future political battles in the U.S.

Review Questions

• How did Andrew Jackson's policies reflect his beliefs about democracy and governance?
  • Andrew Jackson's policies emphasized a belief in democracy that was accessible to ordinary citizens. He expanded suffrage for white males and sought to dismantle elitist institutions like the Second Bank of the United States. His focus on representing the common man against established interests reshaped American politics and laid the groundwork for a more participatory democracy, despite his controversial actions regarding Native Americans.
• Analyze the impact of Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Act on Native American populations and U.S. history.
  • The Indian Removal Act had devastating effects on Native American populations, leading to forced relocations such as the Trail of Tears. This policy resulted in immense suffering, loss of life, and cultural disintegration among tribes like the Cherokee. The long-term impact included a significant alteration of Native American land rights and set a precedent for future U.S. government policies regarding indigenous peoples.
• Evaluate Andrew Jackson's legacy in relation to his role in shaping modern American political culture and identity.
  • Andrew Jackson's legacy is complex; he is celebrated for promoting democratic ideals and expanding political participation yet criticized for his harsh treatment of Native Americans. His presidency laid foundations for a more inclusive electorate while simultaneously reinforcing systemic inequalities. This duality in his legacy has sparked ongoing debates about what it means to be an American and who is included in that identity, impacting discussions on race, rights, and governance in contemporary America.

Related terms

Indian Removal Act: A law passed in 1830 that authorized the forced removal of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the Southeastern United States to designated territories west of the Mississippi River.

Trail of Tears: The forced relocation of thousands of Native Americans, particularly the Cherokee, from their homelands to Indian Territory, resulting in significant suffering and loss of life.

Democratic Party: A political party founded by supporters of Andrew Jackson in the 1820s that emphasized individual liberty, agrarian interests, and opposition to elitism.