Student Activities for Jacksonian Democracy
Important Questions for Jacksonian Democracy
- What was the nature of the Election of 1824 and the “corrupt bargain”?
- How did the Election of 1824 influence political parties and elections? How does it still serve as a learning tool in today’s politics?
- What were Jackson’s actions concerning the national bank, and how did he aim to limit its influence and power?
- How did Jackson aim to limit the powers of the national government, but also expand his own powers as president?
- What was the tariff crisis, and how did Jackson solve what was, at the time, a major concern of secession and disunity among the vastly different American states? How does this exemplify state vs. national powers?
- What was Jackson’s view and stance on the Native American population? What actions did Jackson take to attempt to “solve” this issue, and how does it exemplify America’s treatment of Native Americans?
Jacksonian Democracy
Andrew Jackson served the United States as the seventh president. A war hero who fought in the War of 1812, Jackson was a controversial president, but instrumental in establishing a firm stance on several issues. Jackson hailed from Tennessee, and was the first president from west of the Appalachians. He was a wealthy plantation owner and served as Senator in the 1790s. With political experience as well as a highly touted reputation for his military actions, Jackson served as an emblem of the common man of America. He became the face of the average American, but his presidency will remain shrouded in controversy.
Jackson first emerged on the presidential stage in 1824, where he lost to John Quincy Adams through an unusual political alliance, what Jackson deemed a “corrupt bargain”. With renewed vengeance, and nearly triple the voting contingent, Jackson seized the presidency in both 1828 and 1832. Catering to the people's fear of big government, Jackson went on to reduce government influence.
He battled the national bank and dealt with one of the first crises of secession and disunity among the states. Jackson turned to his closest advisers, his “kitchen cabinet”, for guidance, to the dismay and disapproval of many politicians. He also set a staunch precedent in dealing with the native population, helping establish an even more extreme response to the “Indian problem”. Overall, Andrew Jackson left a mark not only the position of the presidency, but also the nation as a whole. He remains instructive as part of life in early America.
How Tos about Jacksonian Democracy: History and Significance
Engage students with a Jacksonian Democracy classroom debate
Spark curiosity and critical thinking by organizing a debate about Andrew Jackson’s presidency. Students explore multiple perspectives, strengthen argumentation skills, and connect history to current events.
Choose a compelling debate question related to Jacksonian Democracy
Select a topic such as “Was Andrew Jackson’s presidency beneficial or harmful to democracy?” This focuses discussion and encourages deep analysis of historical events.
Assign students to debate teams and roles
Divide the class into two groups—pro and con. Assign speaker, researcher, and fact checker roles to ensure participation and teamwork.
Guide research using primary and secondary sources
Encourage students to use textbooks, online articles, and historical documents. Support evidence-based arguments and teach source evaluation skills.
Facilitate the debate and reflective discussion
Moderate the debate by setting time limits and ensuring respectful dialogue. Afterwards, lead a reflection on how the issues discussed connect to today’s political climate.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jacksonian Democracy: History and Significance
What is Jacksonian Democracy and why is it important for students to learn about?
Jacksonian Democracy refers to the political movement led by President Andrew Jackson that emphasized the rights and power of the common man. It's important for students because it shaped American politics, expanded voter participation, and continues to influence current government policies.
How did Andrew Jackson's presidency impact the national bank?
Andrew Jackson opposed the national bank, believing it favored the wealthy and threatened democracy. He dismantled the bank by vetoing its charter renewal and redirecting funds, significantly changing the country's financial system.
What was the 'corrupt bargain' in the Election of 1824?
The 'corrupt bargain' refers to the alleged deal between John Quincy Adams and Henry Clay during the 1824 presidential election, where Clay supported Adams in exchange for a cabinet position. This event shaped future elections and political party development.
How did Jackson deal with the tariff crisis and what does it reveal about state vs. national powers?
Jackson resolved the tariff crisis by enforcing federal law and negotiating a compromise, preventing South Carolina from seceding. This highlighted the ongoing tension between state and national powers in American history.
What actions did Jackson take regarding Native Americans, and what were the impacts?
Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, forcing Native Americans to relocate west of the Mississippi. This led to the Trail of Tears, causing immense suffering and long-term effects on Native communities.
- check • PNASH • License Attribution (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
- Image taken from page 641 of '[Patton's Concise History of the American People, from the disoveries of the Continent to 1876 ... Illustrated, etc.]' • The British Library • License No known copyright restrictions (http://flickr.com/commons/usage/)
© 2026 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office