Chapter 10: A Democratic Revolution Flashcards
franchise
The right to vote in elections, often determined by citizenship, age, and other legal criteria.
notables
Influential and wealthy individuals who held political power in early 19th-century America.
political machine
A highly organized and often corrupt political organization that used patronage and influence to control local government.
spoils system
A practice of rewarding political supporters with government positions and benefits, particularly associated with the presidency of Andrew Jackson.
caucus
A closed meeting or gathering of members of a political party or faction to select candidates or discuss strategy.
American System
An economic plan developed by Henry Clay that included protective tariffs, a national bank, and internal improvements to promote economic growth.
internal improvements
Government-funded projects such as roads, canals, and railways designed to improve transportation and stimulate economic development.
corrupt bargain
A term used to describe the alleged deal between Henry Clay and John Quincy Adams during the 1824 presidential election, leading to Adams’s election as president.
“consolidated government”
A term used by opponents of strong federal government to criticize perceived centralization of power.
Tariff of Abominations
A high protective tariff passed by Congress in 1828, which led to opposition from Southern states.
nullification
The belief that a state has the right to invalidate or nullify federal laws it deems unconstitutional, a concept often associated with the Nullification Crisis of 1832-1833.
states’ rights
The principle that states have sovereign powers and authority that are separate from and limit the powers of the federal government.
Second Bank of the United States
A national bank rechartered in 1816 that served as a central bank and was a source of controversy and opposition.
Indian Removal Act of 1830
A law passed during Andrew Jackson’s presidency that authorized the forced removal of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the Southeast.
Trail of Tears
The forced relocation and journey of the Cherokee Nation in 1838-1839, resulting in the deaths of thousands of Native Americans.
classical liberalism / laissez-faire
A political and economic philosophy emphasizing limited government intervention in the economy and the protection of individual liberties.
Whigs
A political party formed in the 1830s that opposed the policies of Andrew Jackson and advocated for a stronger federal government and protective tariffs.
Panic of 1837
A severe economic crisis and financial panic marked by bank failures, business closures, and unemployment.
Specie Circular
An executive order issued by President Jackson in 1836 requiring the purchase of federal lands to be made in gold or silver, contributing to the Panic of 1837.
ethnocultural politics
Political movements and affiliations based on cultural, ethnic, or religious identities, particularly evident in the 19th-century United States.
