How did the Age of Jackson change America?
Was this change for the better or
worse?
Shared Inquiry Notes 2nd Hour
● Supported the lower class
-Spokesperson
Male sufferage
Intent vs. Outcome
Did more bad than good (bad overshadowing the good)
● If Jackson hadn’t done it, it would've happened either way
○ The way he did it could’ve been less aggressive compared to others
● Difference between political/economic and moral standpoint
● Changed america for the good but did it in a bad way
● Looking at different perspectives (Native Americans, Jackson)
Jackson’s era had an impact - both good and bad
Jackson’s payed off financial dept
Was Jackson a product of his time period? (Removal of Native Americans)
● Thinking the removal of the Natives was for the greater good, rather than a cruel act
●
Jackson focus was benefiting the economy, not looking out for well being of the Native
Americans
When we look into “How did the Age of Jackson change America?” who are we considering as
?America?
Shared Inquiry Notes 1st Hour
Many of us admire Andrew Jackson’s beliefs, but we generally agree that he exercised
them hypocritically, often at the expense of Americans (specifically groups like African
Americans, Native Americans).
Historical context earlier help the poorer American man, but hurt the Native American
community
Selfish + power hungry or actually for the common man/ What were his true intentions with
America?
Intent vs. Impact
Politician to the core
Used his image of the common man's president to get away with undesirable actions
Even just considering where we live today, we can see the permanent impacts of
Jacksons presidency.
During the Jacksonian era, there was much less power to contest the president (e.g. no
impeachment policy).
Jackson abuses his veto power - Most vetos in any president up until that point and for the
following several.
Jackson started the political method of “mud-slinging” or attacking other candidates in
order to win votes.
Andrew Jacksons views are seen throughout modern-day politics
Andrew Jackson’s actions will be judged differently depending on different time
periods/historical contexts.
What were Andrew Jackson’s real motives- was he a hero of the common man or did he
just want more power? Was he a hero or zero?
Intent versus impact of Andrew Jackson’s actions as president.
Did Jefferson’s Actions negatively influence the way the people viewed Indians (Native
Americans) after his term?
Andrew Jackson strongly vouched for the common man to have a say in government
actions and yet he was someone who would ignore others’s differing opinions to his
own.
Andrew Jackson generally opposed high tariffs but strongly opposed nullification,
asserting federal authority during the Nullification Crisis of 1832. Ultimately, a
compromise tariff in 1833 helped resolve the tensions.
The effects Jackson had on American citizens during his time are very similar to what
has been happening recently with our economy. Back then his decisions with the
National Bank led to an economic crisis which resulted in a lot of unemployment which
has been a growing problem today due to a lot of political views but also the pandemic.
And his way of focusing on a specific group of people for support has been a powerful
tool that many presidents have used since. He used the “common man” card and got a
lot of support from the men who had less of a say, just like this, Donald Trump really
appealed to the republican party and has gained their undeniable support throughout
and after his presidency.
Heroic Actions:
- Battle of New Orleans: Jackson’s leadership during the Battle of New Orleans in
the War of 1812 is often celebrated, boosting his reputation as a military hero.
- Expanding Democracy: Jackson’s Presidency is associated with the expansion of
democracy, as he championed the idea of greater political participation and
increased suffrage for white males.
- Preservation of the Union: Jackson’s strong stance against nullification during the
Nullification Crisis reinforced the idea of a unified nation and the supremacy of the
federal government.
- Common Man’s President: Jackson was often seen as the “people’s president,”
representing the interests of the common man against entrenched elites.
Villainous Actions:
- Indian Removal Policy: The forced removal of Native American tribes, particularly
the Trail of Tears, resulted in the displacement and suffering of thousands of
Native Americans, casting a dark shadow on Jackson’s legacy
- Bank War: Jackson’s opposition to the Bank of the United States and subsequent
removal of federal funds from it led to economic instability and contributed to the
Panic of 1837.
- Executive Overreach: Critics argue that Jackson’s aggressive use of presidential
power, such as his use of the veto and the spoils system, set a precedent for
executive overreach