In the context of Advanced Placement United States History, the term identifies a major political organization that traces its origins to the late 1820s and Andrew Jackson’s presidency. This party generally advocated for states’ rights, westward expansion, and policies benefiting the “common man.” For example, Jackson’s fight against the Second Bank of the United States is often cited as a key demonstration of this party’s commitment to challenging concentrated economic power.
Understanding the evolution of this political entity is crucial for APUSH students. It provides insight into the major political, economic, and social transformations of the 19th and 20th centuries. Examining its stances on issues like slavery, industrialization, civil rights, and the role of government reveals the complex and often contradictory nature of American political history and illuminates the changing definition of “democracy” itself.
