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Greater Equality
Alexis de Tocqueville's Observations:
Social Interaction: People of all classes ate together and traveled together, making class distinctions less apparent.
Equality of Opportunity: The belief that any White male could rise in society through talent and hard work was prevalent.
"Self-Made Man": Celebrated in American culture, though women did not share in this ideal due to legal and cultural restrictions.
Politics of the Common Man
Between 1824 and 1840, American politics became more inclusive, involving middle- and lower-class citizens.
Factors Contributing to Democratic Spread:
New Suffrage Laws: Expanded voting rights to all White males, removing property and religious qualifications.
Changes in Political Parties and Campaigns: Increased popular participation and voter turnout.
Improved Education and Newspaper Circulation: Informed more citizens about political issues.
Universal White Male Suffrage:
Western States' Constitutions: Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri allowed all White males to vote and hold office, influencing other states to follow.
Increased Voter Turnout: From 350,000 in 1824 to 2.4 million in 1840.
Political Parties:
Nominating Conventions: Replaced caucuses, allowing more popular participation.
Popular Election of Electors: By 1832, all states except South Carolina allowed voters to choose presidential electors.
Two-Party System: Emerged to organize national campaigns.
Third Parties:
Anti-Masonic Party and Workingmen’s Party: Addressed issues neglected by major parties, like secret societies and labor rights.
More Elected Offices:
Increased Voter Participation: More state and local officials were elected, involving voters more directly in government.
Popular Campaigning:
Targeting Common People: Campaigns featured parades, rallies, and free food, appealing to ordinary citizens.
Negative Campaigning: Candidates often attacked opponents personally rather than discussing issues.
Spoils System and Rotation of Officeholders:
Jackson's Policies: Appointed loyal Democrats to federal jobs, replacing non-Democrats.
Rotation in Office: Limited terms to allow more citizens to serve in government.
Democratic Ideals: Affirmed the belief that ordinary Americans could hold government office, strengthening the two-party system.
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