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Jackson and Federal Power

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller

10 min read

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Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers Andrew Jackson's rise to presidency, including the "Corrupt Bargain" and his eventual victory. It examines his presidency, focusing on the spoils system, Tariff of Abominations, Nullification Crisis, the National Bank battle, the Indian Removal Act, and the Panic of 1837. Finally, it explores the emergence of the Second Party System (Democrats vs. Whigs) and the presidency of Martin Van Buren.

AP US History Study Guide: The Age of Jackson

Hey there, future APUSH master! Let's break down the Age of Jackson into bite-sized pieces. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially when you're feeling the pre-exam jitters. We’ll make sure you're not just memorizing facts, but understanding the big picture. Let's get started!

1. Andrew Jackson: From War Hero to President

1.1. Jackson's Rise to Fame

  • War of 1812 Hero: Jackson's military victories, especially at the Battle of New Orleans, made him a national hero. 💥 *
Quick Fact

Remember, the Battle of New Orleans happened after the war ended. Talk about a grand finale!

* **Land Acquisition:** Jackson's efforts expanded U.S. territory, boosting cotton production and the economy. 📈 *
Key Concept

This expansion fueled economic growth but also intensified conflicts with Native Americans.

1.2. The Election of 1824: The "Corrupt Bargain"

  • No Electoral Majority: Jackson won the popular vote but didn't secure enough electoral votes.

  • House of Representatives Decides: The election went to the House, where John Quincy Adams was chosen as president.

  • The "Corrupt Bargain": Henry Clay's support for Adams in the House, followed by Clay's appointment as Secretary of State, led to accusations of a corrupt deal. 😠

    Image Courtesy of Truman Library

Exam Tip

Remember the key players: Jackson, Adams, and Clay. This election is a classic example of political maneuvering.

1.3. Democracy and Citizenship under Adams

  • Expanded Suffrage: Many states eased voting requirements, increasing the number of eligible voters. 🗳️
  • Jackson's Appeal: Jackson positioned himself as the "common man," contrasting with Adams' perceived elitism.
Memory Aid

Think of Jackson as the people's champion versus Adams, the aristocrat.

1.4. The Election of 1828: Jackson's Victory

  • Mudslinging Campaign: Both sides engaged in personal attacks and accusations.
  • Jackson's Landslide: Jackson won decisively, marking a shift towards more popular participation in politics. 🎉 *
Quick Fact

This was the first time a president was elected by a majority of the popular vote.

![Image Courtesy of the National Endowment for the Humanities](https://zupay.blob.core.windows.net/resources/files/0baca4f69800419293b4c75aa2870acd_bcd138_224.png?alt=media&token=3a7b8923-fb5d-4164-9636-3c24b8f2f8f9)
Exam Tip

Focus on the rise of the Democratic Party and increased political activism of the common people.

2. Jackson's Presidency: A Time of Change

2.1. The Spoils System: Rewarding Loyalty

  • Patronage: Jackson replaced government officials with his supporters, regardless of their qualifications. 🔄 *
Memory Aid

“To the victor belongs the spoils.” Think of it as giving out trophies to your team.

* **Corruption:** This led to widespread patronage and inefficiency, as many appointees were more interested in personal gain. 
![Image Courtesy of Wikipedia](https://zupay.blob.core.windows.net/resources/files/0baca4f69800419293b4c75aa2870acd_b50626_3530.jpeg?alt=media&token=6641c65a-1d2f-4cf5-9be6-ca75c79e7ec3)
Common Mistake

Don't confuse the spoils system with meritocracy. Jackson prioritized...

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