Formation of Political Parties
Republican Party 1854 because of the debate about sectionalism and slavery Emerged as the party against the SPREAD of slavery (note: not against slavery) Story of the Elephant
Republicans Today Conservative States’ rights, business interest
The Democratic Party forms Andrew Jackson forms “Democratic” party in 1828 He wins the election of 1828 His oponents called him a jackass because of his stubborn ways and his beliefs like “Let the people rule”. Jackson found it funny and started using the donkey in his political campaign. The cartoonist Thomas Nast is credited for making the donkey the symbol of the party. It first appeared in 1870 and the public loved it. By 1880, it was the official symbol. Thomas Nast also drew the elephant for the republican party. He used it in a cartoon. A donkey who was clothed like a lion was scaring away all the animals at the zoo. An elephant was labeled as the republican party and it spread from there. He won after a nasty campaign. He carried many of the ideals of limited federal gov’t except: He vetoed more legislation than any president before him. He opposed the National Bank (which Jefferson supported) He defended the union against states’ rights supporters (nullification crisis)
Democrats today Liberal Support government programs, dominant federal power
What does this cartoon represent. What is the meaning What does this cartoon represent? What is the meaning? Be prepared to discuss.
What are current party platform issues?
Two-Party System 2 major political parties The majority of the elected are from one of the 2 parties What are the benefits of a two party system?
Benefits Limits the choices Defined platforms Individuals can align with a party they agree with What are the negatives of a two party system?
Hold a different viewpoint Sometimes more extreme viewpoints Independent Parties Hold a different viewpoint Sometimes more extreme viewpoints Hard for them to be elected Talk about pulling votes from the other two parties
Libertarian Party Ron Paul Campaign His platform Ran for president 3 times
You do not have to write this down just read through it.
Tomorrow You will be participating in a Mock Political Convention Bring your opinions