PHIPPS
A.P. U.S. History
Chapter 13: The Rise of Jacksonian Democracy (1824-1830)
Chapter Vocabulary:
Mudslinging
Incumbent
Denmark Vesey
Common man
Spoils system
“King Caucus”
Democratic-Republicans
“Revolution of 1828”
“corrupt bargain”
Kitchen Cabinet
Tariff of Abominations
Eaton affair
New Democracy
Chapter Theme:
In the 1820’s a new spirit of strongly anti-elitist popular democracy swept through American politics and
society, culminating in the election of the common person’s hero, Andrew Jackson, to the presidency.
Chapter Summary:
Beginning in the 1820’s, a powerful movement celebrating the common person and promoting the
“New Democracy” transformed the earlier elitist character of American politics. Controversies over
economics and slavery in particular drew millions of ordinary people into political activity, where they soon
cast aside the restraints against complete popular democracy.
The controversial election of the Yankee sophisticate John Quincy Adams in 1824 angered the
followers of Andrew Jackson. Adams’s nationalistic policies stirred up sectional opposition in the West,
while the “Tariff of Abominations” caused bitter protest in the South.
Jackson’s sweeping presidential victory in 1828 represented the political triumph of the New
Democracy, including the spoils-rich political machines that thrived in the new environment. Jackson’s
simple, popular ideas and rough-hewn style reinforced the growing belief that any ordinary person could
hold public office.
Under Jackson, a rising spirit of sectionalism increasingly challenged the earlier nationalism. The
resignation of Vice President Calhoun in the Eaton affair and the Webster-Hayne debate reflected the
growing sectional tension in the country.