Andrew Jackson and Related Historical Concepts

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Andrew Jackson

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The 7th president of the United States (1829–1837), known for promoting the rights of the 'common man,' expanding democracy, and controversial policies like the Indian Removal Act.

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Spoils System

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A practice where Andrew Jackson rewarded political supporters and loyalists with government jobs, claiming it democratized government but leading to accusations of favoritism.

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Corrupt Bargain

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Refers to the 1824 presidential election, where John Quincy Adams was accused of making a deal with Henry Clay to secure the presidency despite Andrew Jackson winning the popular vote.

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Suffrage

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The right to vote; during the Age of Jackson, suffrage expanded to include all white men, regardless of property ownership.

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Jacksonian Democracy

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A political movement during Andrew Jackson's presidency emphasizing greater democracy for the 'common man' and advocating for states' rights and limited federal government.

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Nullify

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To cancel or invalidate; in this era, it referred to states claiming the right to reject federal laws they deemed unconstitutional.

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Tariff

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A tax on imported goods; tariffs became a major issue during the Nullification Crisis, particularly the 'Tariff of Abominations' in 1828, which Southern states opposed.

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Nullification Crisis

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A conflict in the 1830s where South Carolina, led by John C. Calhoun, attempted to nullify federal tariffs. The crisis tested states' rights and federal authority, with Andrew Jackson opposing nullification.

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Indian Removal Act

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A law passed in 1830 that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes to lands west of the Mississippi River, leading to the Trail of Tears.

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Worcester v. Georgia

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A Supreme Court case in which the Court ruled that the Cherokee Nation was a distinct community and Georgia laws had no authority there. Andrew Jackson ignored the ruling, leading to the Cherokee's forced removal.