The Jacksonian Era essays

The Jacksonian Era essays The Jacksonian Era encompassed a period of massive changes. These changes, whether they be social, economic, or political, were embraced by Americans with a new found vigor. This enthusiasm, motivated by a new common man president, Andrew Jackson, gave Americans new hope to pursue their own personal successes in a politically and socially charged society. Andrew Jackson was probably best remembered as the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, where he defeated British forces led by Sir Edward Packenham. The battle greatly boosted American morale and had instilled a sense of unity within the United States. It was no surprise that Jackson would vie for a seat as president of the United States later on. His first attempt, however, proved to be less than successful. Led by an ambiguous campaign with no staunch issues, Jackson was defeated by Adams in 1824. In his second attempt at presidency, Jacksons personality centered the campaign served him better in the election of 1828. With mudslinging and other scandalous activities tossed about the campaign, Jackson defeated Henry Clay and John Adams. Winning the election, however, Jackson did not enter office unscathed. With the loss of his beloved wife, Rachel, Jackson felt certain that her death was due to the malicious lies thrown at her during his campaign of 1828. Jacksons democracy consisted of a strong belief in the majority and its ability to rule. He opposed elitism and aristocracy, and everything that expressed its ideals, including the Second National Bank of the United States (BUS). With that strong sentiment, he sent a veto to Congress to kill the BUS. Jacksons veto of the BUS, however, proved less than satisfactory. The consequences after that would haunt the future of creating a future banking system for generations. The cause of the mistrust was due to the fact that funds that were placed in the BU ...