The Jacksonian Era

The Jacksonian Era (1824-1848)

Although the "Age of Jackson" wasn't a time era, which brought forth a great political, social, or economic freedom and equality to the U.S., it did in fact put our country through a metamorphosis in our political lives of the nation. The start of a new presidency (Jackson's presidency) was accompanied by huge numbers of Hickoryites (Jacksonian supporters) and official hopefuls. Many of these hopefuls were granted their desire of holding office, which is one of the changes brought into Washington by Andrew Jackson.

The major accomplishments of Jackson during his presidency pertain to his rural upbringing and democratic beliefs. To name a couple of Jackson's memorable accomplishments and decisions not only politically, but economically were his nationalization of the spoils system, the Tariff of Abominations, his presidency in general, the Indian Policy, and his democratic views and ways of governing the nation.

Prior to the presidency of Andrew Jackson, the system of appointing officials was under the "ideal of holding office during good behavior", which led to the holding of positions by aged and incapable politicians who were not properly qualified for the tasks and jobs needed to be carried out. On the other hand, Jackson had appointed officials from all walks of life to promote the equality principles of democracy. Jackson also advocated "rotation in office", which meant allow as many people serve in office for the shortest possible time for experience was discounted as a governing skill. Although these principles seem to follow the guidelines of democracy they were not entirely responsible and often the appointment of officials did not fall under these jurisdictions. The selection of officials of Jackson was in many cases the return of a financial grant during campaigning. The consideration of the ability to govern, have intelligence and responsibility etc. were ignored in the wake of compensation. Although opposites alike were granted power they were not always for the continuance of democracy.

Jackson was the most democratic of any president at that time to come to power. In practically all areas of political application there was the existence of liberal thinking. This was especially apparent in his previously mentioned appointment of officials. Jackson considered the roles of officials fairly simple and could and should be carried out by all people not just the members of the socially and intellectually elite. The belief of complete equality is with out a doubt Jacksonian. Despite this already democratic view, Jackson took it one step further and appointed the illiterate and plain incompetent