Activity Overview
In order to understand many of the actions Jackson took during his two terms of presidency, it's helpful for students to have a background of the Election of 1824 and what became known as the "corrupt bargain".
Students will use a traditional storyboard to describe the candidates, their positions, and their role in the election. The idea of the corrupt bargain will tie together each side, and how each candidate played a role in the “bargain”. Students should be able to summarize the political stance of each candidate: Andrew Jackson, John Quincy Adams, and Henry Clay.
The top of the boards should define each candidate, his position, and his election results (popular vote and electoral votes). The bottom portions of the boards describe the role each played in what would become the “corrupt bargain”. Adams will win, Jackson will meet with defeat, and Clay will secure a position in Adams’s cabinet as part of their “deal”.
Extended Activity
Have students research a current political race (presidential, senatorial, etc.) and define the results of the election. Have students look into the policies, ideologies, and beliefs of each candidate, as well as research any “bargains” that may have taken place. This should serve as a connector to current events and current day politics.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard outlining the Election of 1824 and the "corrupt bargain".
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top row, identify the different candidates in the Election of 1824, their stances, and background.
- In the bottom row, describe their role in the election and their outcome.
- Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In order to understand many of the actions Jackson took during his two terms of presidency, it's helpful for students to have a background of the Election of 1824 and what became known as the "corrupt bargain".
Students will use a traditional storyboard to describe the candidates, their positions, and their role in the election. The idea of the corrupt bargain will tie together each side, and how each candidate played a role in the “bargain”. Students should be able to summarize the political stance of each candidate: Andrew Jackson, John Quincy Adams, and Henry Clay.
The top of the boards should define each candidate, his position, and his election results (popular vote and electoral votes). The bottom portions of the boards describe the role each played in what would become the “corrupt bargain”. Adams will win, Jackson will meet with defeat, and Clay will secure a position in Adams’s cabinet as part of their “deal”.
Extended Activity
Have students research a current political race (presidential, senatorial, etc.) and define the results of the election. Have students look into the policies, ideologies, and beliefs of each candidate, as well as research any “bargains” that may have taken place. This should serve as a connector to current events and current day politics.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard outlining the Election of 1824 and the "corrupt bargain".
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the top row, identify the different candidates in the Election of 1824, their stances, and background.
- In the bottom row, describe their role in the election and their outcome.
- Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Analysis of the Election of 1824: A Corrupt Bargain
Organize a classroom debate on the fairness of the 1824 election
Engage students with a lively debate where they examine whether the Election of 1824 was truly a "corrupt bargain". Encourage critical thinking and support students in using evidence from their storyboard research to form strong arguments for both sides.
Assign students to research and take sides as historical figures
Divide your class into groups representing Jackson, Adams, and Clay. Assign each group to prepare talking points defending their character's actions and decisions during the election.
Facilitate structured debate rounds with clear rules
Set ground rules for respectful debate and allocate time for opening statements, rebuttals, and closing arguments. Ensure every group has equal opportunity to present their case and respond.
Encourage the class to vote and reflect on the outcome
Have the class anonymously vote on which side made the most convincing argument. Lead a reflection discussion on how the debate changed or solidified their views about the election's fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions about Analysis of the Election of 1824: A Corrupt Bargain
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 Election of 1824. When no candidate secured a majority of electoral votes, the House of Representatives chose the president. Clay supported Adams, who then appointed Clay as Secretary of State, leading many—including Andrew Jackson—to claim a secret deal had influenced the outcome.
How can students create a storyboard to explain the Election of 1824?
Students can create a storyboard by dividing it into sections: the top row for each candidate’s background, stance, and election results, and the bottom row for their roles in the ‘corrupt bargain’ and election outcomes. Adding illustrations for each part helps visualize key events and participants.
Who were the main candidates in the Election of 1824 and what were their positions?
The main candidates in 1824 were Andrew Jackson (military hero, popular vote leader), John Quincy Adams (experienced diplomat, pro-infrastructure), and Henry Clay (Speaker of the House, supported the American System). Each had distinct backgrounds and policy views.
Why was the Election of 1824 decided by the House of Representatives?
The election was decided by the House of Representatives because no candidate won a majority of electoral votes. The Constitution requires the House to choose among the top three candidates in such cases, which led to Adams being selected as president.
How can teachers connect the 'corrupt bargain' to current political events in lessons?
Teachers can connect the ‘corrupt bargain’ to current events by having students research modern elections for similar deals or alliances. Comparing past and present helps students see patterns in political strategy and understand the ongoing impact of political bargaining.
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