How was the election of Andrew Jackson viewed in 1828?

2 Answers
May 5, 2017

It was seen as a disaster for the Virginian elite that had ruled the country.

Explanation:

Jackson embodied the whites that were not part of the elite that had governed the USA before his election. Though Jackson is remembered for his persecution of minorities, he was seen as a man of the people for common people of the white population.

May 6, 2017

The election of Andrew Jackson was viewed as triumph for the common man.

Explanation:

Andrew Jackson was a populist. He ran on support for the common man, the small farmer, the craftsman. He ran on opposition to the central banks, that benefited the rich elite over the middle class and the poor.

Andrew Jackson himself came from a poor family and gained his fame as a general in battles against the Creek Indian Nation and the British in the Battle of New Orleans.

His inauguration was a picture of his victory. The common people with their muddy boot on were invited into the White House. The fine linen table clothes were dirtied and the social elite were horrified. Jackson said that the White House belonged to the people.