This 1833 political caricature shows Andrew Jackson as a tyrannical ruler, holding a scepter in one hand, a veto in the other, and standing on the U.S. Constitution, which has been torn to pieces. While many in the 1800s argued that Jackson brought forth the Age of the Common Man, others argued that his style of government was decidedly undemocratic and certainly not in favor of the common man. Which position do you believe is more accurate? Considering this position, what do you believe was the greatest impact (positive or negative) to society during the Age of Jackson? Why?
Your journal entry must be at least 200 words in length. No references or citations are necessary.
Reference
Journal Entry
Student name
Institution
Course name
Instructor’s name
Date
I believe that President Andrew Jackson’s governing style was not in favor of the common people and that the political caricature accurately portrays his presidency. Although his rise to the presidency despite his humble background may seem impressive to many, his actions were mainly in favor of the common white settlers and not any other communities.
The most negative impact of the Jackson Age was the harsh treatment that Native Americans and enslaved people received in favor of white people. Jackson strongly supported slavery and greatly benefited from it. He strongly opposed any policies that would abolish slavery and considered any anti-slavery advocates as evil. Jackson also implemented the Indian Removal Act which was among the top legislative priorities when he became president. The legislation forced thousands of Native Americans out of their ancestral homes to give room for white people to cultivate the land. The forceful removal by the military resulted in a lot of deaths and many natives were forced to assimilate into white culture leading to a significant loss of native culture and language. Jackson also signed at least 70 treaties that pressured Native Americans to leave their land and move to reserves. Relocating Native Americans supported the slavery institution since slave owners had more land to cultivate.
The actions that President Jackson took against African Americans and Native Americans prove that he was not democratic. The legislation he signed encouraged racial discrimination, prejudice, and marginalization in favor of white settlers. His negative actions greatly outnumber any positive contributions he made to the country.