In the context of Advanced Placement United States History, the term refers to the political culture shift during the Jacksonian Era (roughly 1820s-1840s) that emphasized the increased participation of average citizens in government. This period witnessed the expansion of suffrage to include more white males, regardless of property ownership, and a broader belief that ordinary people were capable of holding public office. An example of this phenomenon is the election of Andrew Jackson, who was portrayed as a frontiersman and war hero, appealing directly to the electorate rather than relying solely on the established political elite.
The focus on broader involvement brought about significant changes in American politics. It fostered a sense of democratic empowerment among a larger segment of the population. Party politics became more organized and focused on mobilizing voters. Campaigns emphasized populist rhetoric and aimed to connect with the concerns of ordinary individuals. Moreover, the trend resulted in new political structures, like national conventions, where party nominees were chosen through more accessible methods, furthering the inclusion of the general public.
Understanding the expansion of democratic participation during the Jacksonian Era provides a vital framework for analyzing subsequent historical developments, including the rise of sectionalism, debates over economic policy, and the evolving definition of American citizenship and political involvement.
1. Suffrage Expansion
Suffrage expansion represents a core element of the broader concept of the period, significantly impacting its manifestation and long-term consequences.
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Elimination of Property Requirements
The removal of property ownership as a prerequisite for voting allowed a greater proportion of white males to participate in the political process. This directly empowered individuals from lower socioeconomic strata, previously excluded from formal political influence. Andrew Jackson’s appeal resonated strongly with this newly enfranchised segment of the population, contributing to his electoral success and solidifying the era’s association with the elevation of the average citizen.
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Westward Expansion and Democratization
As new states were admitted to the Union, particularly in the West, their constitutions often enshrined more inclusive suffrage provisions from the outset. These states, less encumbered by the traditions of the Eastern establishment, embraced the idea of broader participation more readily. This regional difference further fueled the perception of a shift toward a more egalitarian political landscape, contributing to the overall narrative.
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Racial and Gender Exclusions
Despite the widening of suffrage for white males, significant limitations remained. Women, African Americans (both enslaved and free), and Native Americans were systematically denied the right to vote. This highlights the selective nature of the expansion, emphasizing that the elevation of the average citizen primarily benefited a specific demographic. The contradiction between the rhetoric of inclusion and the reality of exclusion shaped the era’s social and political tensions.
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Impact on Political Campaigns
The increasing number of eligible voters necessitated changes in campaign strategies. Candidates began to appeal directly to the electorate through rallies, speeches, and campaign materials designed to resonate with the concerns of ordinary people. This shift toward popular campaigning marked a departure from the more elitist and deferential political styles of previous eras, solidifying the emphasis on the average citizen in the political process.
The expansion, while incomplete and exclusionary in many respects, fundamentally altered the nature of American politics during the Jacksonian Era. The increased participation of white males, combined with new campaign strategies and the democratization of Western states, reinforced the narrative of an ascendant average citizen. However, the exclusion of women and minorities reveals that this supposed elevation was limited and ultimately served to reinforce existing power structures, influencing later struggles for universal suffrage and equality.
2. Jacksonian Democracy
Jacksonian Democracy directly embodies the core tenets of the eras shift toward the average citizen. It represents the political philosophy and movements associated with Andrew Jackson and his followers, characterized by a belief in greater popular participation in government. The expansion of suffrage, the rejection of elitism, and the embrace of populist rhetoric are hallmarks of Jacksonian Democracy that directly contribute to defining the era. Jacksons presidency served as a practical demonstration of the capabilities of an ordinary person to hold the nations highest office. For instance, his veto of the re-charter of the Second Bank of the United States, framed as a defense of the common person against the wealthy elite, exemplifies this connection. His use of the spoils system, though controversial, further solidified the perception of a government more responsive to the needs and desires of the broader population.
The impact of Jacksonian Democracy on the definition can be seen in the transformation of political campaigning. Recognizing the importance of appealing to a wider electorate, Jackson and his supporters pioneered techniques such as mass rallies, campaign songs, and the distribution of campaign paraphernalia. These innovations democratized the political process, making it more accessible and engaging for ordinary citizens. The formation of the Democratic Party itself, designed to mobilize voters and advocate for the interests of the average person, further underscores the central role of Jacksonian Democracy in shaping this focus.
Understanding the relationship provides critical insight into the complexities of American political development. While Jacksonian Democracy expanded political participation for some, it simultaneously perpetuated inequalities by excluding women, African Americans, and Native Americans from full citizenship. Analyzing these limitations is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the historical context. Recognizing that Jacksonian Democracy represents both a step toward greater inclusivity and a reinforcement of existing power structures offers a nuanced and historically accurate interpretation of its significance and lasting impact.
3. Political Participation
Political participation serves as a foundational element of the focus during the Jacksonian Era. It encompasses the various ways in which ordinary citizens engaged with the government and political processes of the time. This involvement extended beyond simply casting a ballot, encompassing activities such as attending rallies, joining political organizations, expressing opinions in public forums, and actively campaigning for candidates. The expansion of suffrage to include a greater proportion of white males created a larger pool of potential participants, fueling a surge in these activities. The election of Andrew Jackson, often attributed to his appeal to the average citizen, exemplifies the power of increased political participation in shaping the course of American history. His supporters actively campaigned on his behalf, attending rallies and spreading his message throughout the country. This level of engagement reflected a growing belief that ordinary people had a right and a responsibility to influence the decisions of their government.
Furthermore, increased political participation during this era led to significant changes in campaign strategies and party organization. Candidates recognized the importance of appealing directly to the electorate, leading to the development of more populist and accessible campaign methods. The formation of national political conventions, designed to allow a broader range of party members to participate in the nomination process, represents a direct consequence of this increased involvement. Even the spoils system, while controversial, reflected a desire to incorporate more ordinary citizens into government positions, fostering a sense of shared ownership and responsibility. Analyzing voter turnout rates and campaign records from the period provides empirical evidence of this surge in political activity, confirming the centrality of understanding this political development.
In summary, political participation is inextricably linked to this time period as a whole. It is a crucial component for grasping the dynamics of the time, the rise of Jacksonian Democracy, and the evolution of American political culture. Understanding the nature and extent of this participation, along with its limitations and consequences, is essential for a comprehensive understanding of its relevance and impact. Recognizing the link enriches interpretations of the era, fostering a more nuanced appreciation of its complexities.
4. Egalitarianism
Egalitarianism, the belief in the equality of all people, serves as a crucial ideological underpinning that helps define the focus in the APUSH context. It provided the philosophical justification for expanding political participation and challenging traditional hierarchies during the Jacksonian Era.
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Challenging Elitism
The rejection of aristocratic privilege and the belief that ordinary citizens were capable of self-governance directly challenged the established political order. The concept empowered individuals previously excluded from positions of power, contributing to the populist sentiment that defined the time period. The election of Andrew Jackson, a self-made man from humble origins, symbolized this shift away from elitism and toward a more egalitarian ideal.
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Expanding Suffrage as an Expression of Equality
The movement to eliminate property requirements for voting reflected a belief that all white men, regardless of their economic status, should have an equal say in government. This expansion of suffrage represented a tangible step toward greater political equality. It also fueled a surge in voter turnout and political engagement, transforming the nature of American politics.
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Economic Opportunity and Social Mobility
The promise of equal opportunity, particularly in the burgeoning market economy, resonated with many Americans during this time. They believed that hard work and talent, rather than birth or social status, should determine an individual’s success. While economic inequality persisted, the ideal of upward mobility fueled the belief that the focus was creating a more equitable society.
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Limitations and Contradictions
It is important to acknowledge that the egalitarianism of this era was limited and often contradictory. The expansion of rights primarily benefited white males, while women, African Americans, and Native Americans continued to face systemic discrimination and exclusion. This selective application of egalitarian principles highlights the complex and often hypocritical nature of the historical context.
The emphasis on equality, while imperfectly realized, fundamentally shaped the political and social landscape during the specified era. It influenced the expansion of suffrage, the rise of populist movements, and the challenge to traditional hierarchies. Understanding the interplay between the egalitarian ideals and the inherent limitations is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the focus in APUSH.
5. Popular Sovereignty
Popular sovereignty, the principle that the authority of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives, stands as a central tenet reflecting the political and social currents that define the era and its emphasis on broader accessibility.
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Empowerment of the Electorate
This doctrine inherently places power in the hands of the citizenry, aligning directly with the idea of increased involvement. The belief that citizens, rather than elites, should determine policy decisions underscored the drive to expand suffrage and encourage greater participation in political processes. For example, the debates over the expansion of slavery into new territories often invoked popular sovereignty as a means of allowing residents of those territories to decide the issue for themselves, exemplifying its application in real-world political contests.
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Challenge to Established Authority
The principle served as a challenge to traditional notions of deference and hierarchical governance. By asserting the right of the people to govern themselves, it implicitly rejected the idea that political power should be concentrated in the hands of a privileged few. The Jacksonian era witnessed a decline in the influence of established political families and an increase in the prominence of individuals who rose through popular appeal, a direct consequence of the rising importance of the broader electorate.
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Justification for Political Action
Advocates of various political causes frequently invoked this principle to legitimize their actions. Whether arguing for or against particular policies, appeals to the will of the people became a common rhetorical strategy. This increased emphasis on the role of the citizenry led to the development of more sophisticated campaign techniques and party organizations, as political actors sought to mobilize and persuade the electorate.
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Limitations and Ambiguities
Despite its apparent appeal, this principle was not without its limitations and ambiguities. The question of who constituted “the people” and how their will should be ascertained remained contested issues. Furthermore, reliance on popular sovereignty could sometimes lead to the suppression of minority rights, as the majority could impose its will without regard for the interests of marginalized groups. The debates over slavery illustrate this tension, as the rights of enslaved people were often ignored in the name of self-determination.
The implementation of popular sovereignty, with its focus on citizen empowerment and challenge to established authority, was fundamental to defining the era and its complex relationship to political accessibility. Its influence permeated political discourse, campaign strategies, and policy debates, shaping the course of American history during a transformative period.
6. Anti-elitism
Anti-elitism, a rejection of the influence and power of privileged individuals or groups, constitutes a central element in understanding the increased political accessibility during a certain period in US History. It provided a key ideological foundation for empowering average citizens and challenging established hierarchies, thus helping to define the era.
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Distrust of Established Political Figures
A prominent feature of anti-elitism was skepticism towards established political leaders and institutions. There was a widespread belief that these elites were out of touch with the needs and concerns of ordinary people, and that their policies often favored the wealthy and privileged at the expense of the average citizen. Andrew Jackson’s successful portrayal of himself as an outsider challenging the Washington establishment exemplifies this sentiment. His attacks on the Second Bank of the United States, which he viewed as a tool of the wealthy elite, further solidified his image as a champion of the common person.
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Emphasis on Meritocracy and Self-Made Success
Anti-elitism fostered a belief in meritocracy, the idea that success should be based on hard work and talent rather than birth or social status. This emphasis on self-made success resonated with many Americans who felt that the established elite had unfairly benefited from inherited wealth and privilege. It fueled a desire to create a more level playing field where ordinary citizens could achieve upward mobility through their own efforts. This ideal contributed to the popularity of figures like Jackson, who represented the possibility of rising from humble origins to positions of power.
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Rejection of Deference and Social Hierarchy
Anti-elitism challenged traditional notions of deference and social hierarchy. There was a growing sense that ordinary citizens should not automatically defer to the judgment of their social superiors, but rather should exercise their own independent thought and participate actively in the political process. This rejection of deference contributed to the expansion of suffrage and the increasing importance of popular opinion in shaping political decisions. Campaigns began to focus on appealing directly to the electorate, rather than relying on the endorsements of influential figures.
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Potential for Demagoguery and Exclusion
While anti-elitism played a positive role in promoting greater political accessibility, it also had its drawbacks. The rejection of expertise and the emphasis on populist sentiment could sometimes lead to demagoguery and the manipulation of public opinion. Furthermore, anti-elitism often excluded marginalized groups, such as women, African Americans, and Native Americans, from full participation in the political process. The focus on the “common white man” often came at the expense of these groups, highlighting the limitations and contradictions of the period.
In conclusion, anti-elitism provided a crucial ideological foundation for the focus on the average citizen. Its emphasis on challenging established hierarchies, promoting meritocracy, and empowering ordinary citizens contributed significantly to the political transformations of the era. However, its limitations and potential for exclusion must also be recognized to fully understand its complex and often contradictory legacy.
7. Campaigning Changes
The transformations in political campaigning during the Jacksonian Era are intrinsically linked to the expanded role and visibility of the average citizen. As suffrage expanded to include more white males, candidates and parties adapted their methods to appeal to a broader electorate. Campaigning shifted from a focus on elite networks and legislative maneuvering to a more populist approach, directly targeting ordinary voters. The emergence of mass rallies, campaign songs, and partisan newspapers aimed to mobilize and engage this larger segment of the population. This shift was a direct consequence of the belief that the common person should play a more significant role in shaping government policy and selecting leaders. Andrew Jackson’s presidential campaigns, with their emphasis on his humble origins and military heroism, exemplified this new style of political outreach.
The development of national political conventions further demonstrates the impact of broadened accessibility on campaign practices. These conventions replaced the closed-door caucus system, allowing for greater participation from party members across the country in the nomination process. The rise of partisan newspapers and other forms of mass communication enabled candidates to disseminate their message directly to voters, bypassing traditional intermediaries. Furthermore, the increased emphasis on voter turnout led to the development of more sophisticated party organizations at the local and state levels. These organizations were tasked with registering voters, mobilizing supporters, and ensuring that they cast their ballots on election day. The spoils system, though controversial, served as a means of rewarding loyal party members and further solidifying the connection between the party and the electorate.
The evolution of campaign strategies and tactics during this period underscores the era’s focus on democratization and greater accessibility. The shift from elite-dominated politics to a more populist approach reflected a fundamental change in the relationship between citizens and their government. Understanding the transformative impact of campaigning is crucial for grasping the dynamics of this historical period. Its consequences resonate even today in modern campaign practices and the ongoing debate over the role of ordinary citizens in shaping political outcomes. These changes presented both opportunities for greater civic participation and challenges related to misinformation and the potential for manipulation of public opinion.
8. Spoils system
The spoils system, a practice of rewarding political supporters with public office, held a complex relationship with the increasing focus on the average citizen. While seemingly democratizing by allowing more individuals to participate in government, it also presented challenges to the ideal of a meritocratic and efficient civil service.
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Patronage and Political Participation
The spoils system expanded avenues for participation, allowing more individuals from various backgrounds to hold government positions. By replacing existing officeholders with loyal partisans, administrations could reward supporters and foster a sense of inclusion in the political process. For example, Andrew Jackson’s administration famously defended the system as a means of preventing a permanent bureaucracy and ensuring responsiveness to the popular will.
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Rotation in Office and Anti-Elitism
Advocates of the spoils system argued that “rotation in office” prevented the development of a professional, entrenched elite. By limiting tenure and rewarding political loyalty, the system aimed to keep government responsive to the changing needs and desires of the citizenry. This concept resonated with the anti-elitist sentiment that characterized the era, challenging the notion that only a select few were qualified to hold public office. This was supported by suggesting any common person could do government jobs.
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Potential for Corruption and Inefficiency
The spoils system created opportunities for corruption and inefficiency. Appointing unqualified individuals to positions of responsibility based on political loyalty, rather than merit, could lead to poor governance and misuse of public funds. Critics argued that the system undermined the integrity of the civil service and hindered the effective functioning of government. Political connections become qualification for the positions.
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Impact on Party Loyalty and Mobilization
The spoils system strengthened party loyalty and mobilization. By offering the incentive of public office, political parties could attract and retain supporters, fostering a sense of shared purpose and commitment. This contributed to the development of more robust party organizations and more effective campaigns. However, this created power imbalance for political leaders who were in charge of the distribution.
While the spoils system aimed to democratize government by involving more average citizens, its inherent flaws ultimately undermined the principles of meritocracy and efficiency. Its impact on government administration illustrates the complexities of balancing popular participation with effective governance during a period of significant political change. The system eventually faced reform efforts aimed at establishing a more professional and non-partisan civil service.
9. Party development
The evolution of political parties during the Jacksonian Era is inextricably linked to the increased emphasis on the average citizen. The expansion of suffrage and the growing belief in the importance of popular participation necessitated new forms of political organization capable of mobilizing a larger and more diverse electorate. Pre-existing, loosely structured factions transitioned into more formalized and robust political parties with defined platforms and strategies for appealing to the common voter. The Democratic Party, in particular, emerged as a champion of the common person, advocating for policies that purportedly benefited farmers, laborers, and small business owners. The Whig Party, while drawing support from various segments of society, also adapted its approach to resonate with popular sentiments, often presenting itself as a defender of traditional values and economic opportunity. The ability of these parties to effectively organize, communicate, and mobilize voters became a critical factor in shaping the political landscape.
The development of national conventions, campaign committees, and partisan newspapers was a direct response to the need to connect with a broader electorate. National conventions, for instance, provided a mechanism for selecting presidential nominees through a more democratic process, engaging party members from across the country. Campaign committees played a crucial role in fundraising, organizing rallies, and disseminating campaign literature, while partisan newspapers served as influential tools for shaping public opinion and promoting party platforms. The use of populist rhetoric, appeals to emotion, and the celebration of common values became hallmarks of political campaigns during this period. The Democratic Party’s skillful use of these techniques contributed significantly to Andrew Jackson’s electoral success and cemented the party’s image as a champion of the average citizen. As an example, Martin Van Buren helped organize the Democratic party, setting up local and state committees to promote the party and its nominee, Jackson.
Understanding the interplay between party development and the rising influence of the average citizen is essential for comprehending the dynamics of the Jacksonian Era. The emergence of robust political parties transformed American politics, empowering ordinary voters and creating new avenues for political participation. However, it is also crucial to recognize the limitations and potential drawbacks of this development. The emphasis on party loyalty could sometimes lead to the suppression of dissenting voices and the manipulation of public opinion. Furthermore, the focus on appealing to the average voter often came at the expense of marginalized groups, such as women, African Americans, and Native Americans. A balanced assessment of party development during this period acknowledges both its positive contributions to democratization and its inherent limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding “Common Man APUSH Definition”
The following questions address common inquiries and potential misunderstandings surrounding the historical concept.
Question 1: How accurate is the term “common man” given the historical context?
The phrase is a simplification. Suffrage expansion primarily benefited white males, excluding women, African Americans, and Native Americans. The term thus reflects a limited inclusivity rather than universal participation.
Question 2: Was Andrew Jackson truly a “common man”?
While Jackson cultivated an image of being a man of the people, he was a wealthy landowner and slaveholder. His appeal lay in his perceived distance from the established political elite, not necessarily in his socioeconomic status.
Question 3: Did this era represent a complete democratization of American society?
No. Significant inequalities persisted, and access to political power remained unevenly distributed. The rise of the focus represents a step toward democratization, but not its culmination.
Question 4: What were the major political changes that occurred during this time?
Key shifts included the expansion of suffrage, the rise of national political conventions, increased political participation, and the development of more robust party organizations. These changes altered the dynamics of American politics.
Question 5: How did these changes impact the role of the federal government?
The Jacksonian Era saw debates over the power of the federal government, particularly regarding the national bank and internal improvements. The debates reflected a tension between promoting national unity and respecting states’ rights.
Question 6: What are the long-term consequences of the focus in American history?
The legacy includes increased citizen participation in politics, the development of modern campaign techniques, and ongoing debates over economic inequality and the role of government. It is a period that continues to shape contemporary political discourse.
Understanding the concept necessitates an awareness of its nuances and limitations, avoiding overly simplistic interpretations. The period represents a complex chapter in American history, marked by both progress and persistent inequalities.
Examining the Common Man’s Impact
This section provides targeted guidance for mastering the topic for Advanced Placement United States History examinations. Focusing on key areas can ensure a comprehensive and effective study approach.
Tip 1: Grasp Suffrage Expansion: Understand the nuances of suffrage expansion beyond simple definitions. Analyze who benefited (white males) and who remained excluded (women, minorities). Cite specific examples of constitutional changes or state laws that facilitated this expansion.
Tip 2: Analyze Jackson’s Rhetoric: Examine Andrew Jackson’s speeches and messages for key terms and phrases that appealed to the common voter. Identify how he presented himself as an outsider challenging the established elite. Consider his actions, such as the Bank Veto, in relation to his rhetoric.
Tip 3: Evaluate the Spoils System: Move beyond simply defining the spoils system. Analyze its intended benefits (increased participation) and its drawbacks (corruption, inefficiency). Compare and contrast arguments for and against the practice, referencing historical sources.
Tip 4: Connect Party Development to Voter Mobilization: Understand how the rise of the Democratic and Whig parties transformed American politics. Trace the development of campaign techniques, such as mass rallies and partisan newspapers, and analyze their impact on voter turnout.
Tip 5: Understand Egalitarianism’s Limitations: Acknowledge that egalitarianism was imperfectly realized. Discuss the contradictions between the rhetoric of equality and the realities of racial and gender discrimination. Explain how these limitations shaped the era’s social and political dynamics.
Tip 6: Contextualize with Westward Expansion: Understand how the frontier and westward expansion fueled the focus. New states often had less restrictive voting requirements, so illustrate how the demographics in states influenced the definition of the common man in APUSH.
Tip 7: Link to Economic Changes: Explain how the Market Revolution fueled the concept. The Market Revolution changed the social classes in the U.S.
A comprehensive understanding requires grasping the complexities, contradictions, and long-term consequences of these transformations. Emphasizing critical analysis and specific historical examples is crucial for success.
By applying these strategies, students can develop a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of the era, enabling them to effectively address related essay prompts and multiple-choice questions on the APUSH exam.
Common Man APUSH Definition
The foregoing analysis has explored the multifaceted nature of this historical theme, underscoring its centrality to understanding the political, social, and economic transformations of the Jacksonian Era. Key elements, including suffrage expansion, the rise of Jacksonian Democracy, and the evolution of campaign practices, demonstrate a significant, albeit incomplete, shift toward greater inclusion in American political life. Understanding the limitations, contradictions, and long-term consequences of this focus is essential for a nuanced historical interpretation.
Continued study and critical analysis of this time period remain vital for a comprehensive understanding of American history. The era’s emphasis on the average citizen, despite its inherent exclusions, continues to shape contemporary debates about democracy, equality, and the role of government, demanding ongoing scholarly attention and reflection.
