Age of Jackson: Crash Course US History #14

Summary

In this episode of Crash Course U.S. History, John Green explores the rise of democratization during the Age of Jackson, highlighting significant changes in voting rights and political dynamics between 1820 and 1850. He discusses the shift from a landowner-based electorate to broader male suffrage, the emergence of the Democratic Party under Martin Van Buren, and the controversial presidency of Andrew Jackson, marked by his strong executive power and fiscal policies. The episode also addresses key events like the Missouri Compromise, the Indian Removal Act, and the economic implications of Jackson’s banking policies, ultimately framing the era as a pivotal moment in American political evolution.

Takeaways

• 😀 The initial U.S. democracy was limited to white male landowners, but property requirements for voting were gradually eliminated between 1820 and 1850.
• 😀 Andrew Jackson, the seventh president, symbolized the rise of democratization in the U.S., but his election was facilitated by existing changes in voting laws.
• 😀 The 'American System' aimed to promote economic nationalism through infrastructure improvements, tariffs, and a national bank.
• 😀 The Monroe Doctrine asserted U.S. opposition to European colonialism in the Americas and proclaimed American neutrality in European conflicts.
• 😀 The Missouri Compromise attempted to address the issue of slavery's expansion, allowing Missouri as a slave state while admitting Maine as free.
• 😀 Martin Van Buren played a pivotal role in founding the Democratic Party and recognizing the importance of political parties in a democratic system.
• 😀 Jackson's presidency marked a shift towards a more aggressive executive branch, culminating in actions that some viewed as tyrannical.
• 😀 The Tariff of 1828 led to a crisis with South Carolina, showcasing tensions between state and federal authority and Jackson's strong response.
• 😀 The Indian Removal Act of 1830 facilitated the forced relocation of Native American tribes, exemplified by the tragic Trail of Tears.
• 😀 Jackson's banking policies, particularly the veto of the Second Bank of the United States, contributed to economic instability and ultimately the Panic of 1837.

Q & A

What significant change in voting rights occurred during the Age of Jackson?

Between 1820 and 1850, many states eliminated property requirements for voting, allowing a greater number of white men to participate in the electoral process.

How did Andrew Jackson's presidency reflect the democratic changes of his time?

Jackson's presidency marked a shift towards appealing to the 'common man,' emphasizing his status as a self-made individual with little formal schooling, which resonated with lower and middle-class voters.

What was the Missouri Compromise and why was it significant?

The Missouri Compromise allowed Missouri to enter the Union as a slave state while Maine entered as a free state, establishing a line above which slavery was prohibited. It highlighted the growing tensions over slavery in the expanding nation.

What role did Martin Van Buren play in the development of the Democratic Party?

Van Buren is credited with founding the Democratic Party and understanding the importance of national political parties for organizing democratic participation.

What was the main opposition to Andrew Jackson's policies during his presidency?

The Whig Party emerged in opposition to Jackson, criticizing his concentration of power in the executive branch and supporting a more active federal government, particularly in economic matters.

What was the Nullification Crisis and how did Jackson respond?

The Nullification Crisis arose when South Carolina threatened to nullify federal tariffs. Jackson responded by enforcing federal authority and passing the Force Act to collect taxes, showcasing his commitment to federal power.

What was the Indian Removal Act and what were its consequences?

The Indian Removal Act of 1830 facilitated the relocation of Native American tribes from their lands, leading to the Trail of Tears, where many Native Americans suffered and died during the forced march to Oklahoma.

How did Jackson's banking policies impact the U.S. economy?

Jackson's opposition to the Second Bank of the United States led to the withdrawal of federal funds and the creation of 'pet banks,' which increased money supply and contributed to rampant inflation, culminating in the Panic of 1837.

What were the broader implications of Jackson's presidency for American politics?

Jackson's presidency expanded the role of the executive branch and established a precedent for strong presidential power, shaping modern American political dynamics and the ongoing tensions between democracy and authority.

In what ways did Jackson's policies contradict the democratic ideals of his time?

While Jackson's presidency expanded voting rights for white males, it simultaneously reinforced racial and economic inequalities, particularly through the Indian Removal Act and his disregard for non-white populations.