Topic: Judging the Jacksonian Era: Why Did It Break Down? Based on our previous lessons, what does it mean to be a “Jacksonian Democrat”? Were “Jacksonians” good or bad for the country? Explain in 3-4 sentences.
Election of 1836 Jackson will not run for third term Endorses Martin Van Buren (“little magician”) Creation of “new” political party –the Whigs A diverse group, united only in their hatred of Jackson Northerners and southerners Election 1836: Whigs still too disorganized Van Buren wins, but is in Jackson’s shadow
Van Buren’s Problems Van Buren opposed by Whigs at every turn Crash of 1837 Speculation & Jackson’s Spiece Circular (1836) Wildcat Banks Crop failures No US Bank problems with European trade Unemployment, public debt Van Buren’s “Divorce Bill” (Independent Treasury 1840) Slow economic recovery
Van Buren’s Texas Problem Northern Mexico (Texas) under-populated Spanish ask for white settlers from US “Mexicanize” American settlers Settlers wanted to “stay” American, resented Mexican authority (slavery, immigration issues) Santa Anna suspends all rights for settlers 1836: Texas declares independence from Mexico (The Alamo) Texas breaks off, an independent republic by 1837 (Lone Star Republic) Should Texas be annexed? Van Buren refuses (slave issue)
End of an Era: Election of 1840 Van Buren running again Economic problems, annexation issue Whigs nominate William Henry Harrison General of 1812 Non-entity in politics “Tippecanoe & Tyler Too” “Log Cabin” candidate Harrison wins (234 to 60) Jacksonian era is at an end… or is it?
Conclusion Do you think “Jacksonian Democracy” ended with Van Buren? Explain your opinion in 3-4 sentences.