The People's President: Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson, also known as "The People's President", has been controversial due to his nickname. He did act in the interest of the people, but not always. He would get into duels, give people positions in the government even though they may have criminal connections, and forced Native Americans to leave their land. The nickname "The People's President" isn't really deserved. He caused many problems in government, as we learned about in class. But he did some good things, such as acting in the interest of the people. Each group made presentations telling about the Indian Removal, the Spoils System, and the Bank War.

The Indian Removal forced natives off their land unless they refused to pay taxes and fight in the state militia. Eventually, they were forced out. The Bank War was an example of Jackson fighting for the people. The spoils system, however, made the government corrupt. More people got positions in government due to their support of the party, not on merit.

 

Democracy's Rise in America

Democracy plays a huge role in America. Democracy means having power in the hands of the elected who are elected by the people. In the 1800's, the U.S wasn't very democratic until people could elect legislatures. In class we read documents concerning the voting ability of the people, how Thomas W. Dorr helped Rhode Island adopt a new constitution within the state, and the requirements one had to meet to vote. We then were put into groups and created a poster.

Overview of the poster (Note: I was not able to rotate the pictures at this time)

Document relating to Thomas W. Dorr

Chart showing requirements to vote among states