by Theresa Mchatton

Created on: July 28, 2008   Last Updated: July 31, 2008

President Andrew JACKSON
Apvanced Placement United States History

The Age of Jackson (1815-1850) was a time for American reform. In these years, the abolitionist movement, women's rights, education, prison and hospital reform. The right to vote was extended to all white male citizens over the age of 21, not just property holders. Two parties emerged. Nominating conventions became presidential elective norm. Jackson was extremely popular; he was considered a hero. Though greatly considered positive, poverty and misery was still widespread thought his age. After the first wave of industrialism, a large gap grew between the rich and the poor. The first slums appeared, Indians were treated extremely cruelly, and slavery was growing in the South.

Jackson meant the rise of common people's power in their government; he truly represented the people. He was an example of the well loved story "rags to riches." He was against programs to make the rich richer, as believed to be depicted by his veto of the 2nd National Bank.

Jackson was a great nationalist, as he was an extreme patriot. More controversial ideas have grown with time. Some believe that the poor was all together forgotten as the people trying to rich battled the rich. Neo-Conservatives believe that the era was based on the middle-class and disputes were political, not economic. Still others go father, questioning whether there ever was Jacksonian Democracy in this era of many things.

Jackson's intense hate for the Indians, strict foreign policy, and his military background made him popular. Jackson offered emotional stability for an emotionally unstable country. However, his violent temper was not praised. It lead to violence and aggression because of dilemma and confusion. Though the president seemed to united the country, underlying tensions would lead to the Civil War.

The author finds it hard to make conclusions on Jackson, because there are so many points of view with reasonably backed arguments.

Jackson refused to loose in the War of 1812; he was extremely determined and had strong willpower. This also lead to his need for domination and his need to win. He had a mean temper, was moody, and revengeful. Jefferson importantly charismatic. He had little education but was extremely smart. He acted on instinct rather than education. Jackson spoke with honest and without fear.

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