DEMOCRATS APUSH DEFINITION - trunking

Democrats: An APUSH Definition

In the context of APUSH (Advanced Placement United States History), the Democrats refer primarily to the Democratic-Republican Party that emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and subsequently, to the modern Democratic Party that formed later. Key figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Andrew Jackson shaped its early ideology, which emphasized states' rights and agrarianism. Understanding the evolution of the Democratic Party is crucial for mastering American political history.

The Democratic-Republican Party (Early 19th Century)

The Democratic-Republican Party, often considered the precursor to the modern Democratic Party, arose in opposition to the Federalist Party led by Alexander Hamilton. Thomas Jefferson and James Madison were central figures in its formation. A defining characteristic of this party was its advocacy for limited government and states' rights. They believed that the federal government should have restricted powers, with more authority reserved for individual states. This stance was particularly appealing to farmers and those in the agrarian South and West. democrat and chronicle obituary legacy

Key Beliefs of the Democratic-Republicans

• Strict interpretation of the Constitution
• Emphasis on agrarianism and the yeoman farmer
• Opposition to a national bank
• Support for states' rights
• Pro-French foreign policy (initially)

The Jacksonian Democrats (Mid-19th Century)

Under the leadership of Andrew Jackson, the Democratic Party underwent a significant transformation. Jacksonian Democracy championed the common man and expanded suffrage to include more white males. This era saw the rise of popular politics and a more participatory electorate. Jackson's policies, such as his opposition to the Second Bank of the United States, resonated with many Americans who felt disenfranchised by the economic elite. The Jacksonian Democrats emphasized individualism, egalitarianism (for white men), and a strong executive branch. democratic republican party apush definition

Key Features of Jacksonian Democracy

• Expansion of suffrage
• Spoils system (patronage)
• Opposition to the Second Bank of the United States
• Emphasis on individualism
• Manifest Destiny

The Modern Democratic Party

The Democratic Party continued to evolve throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, responding to major events such as the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, and the Great Depression. Figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt reshaped the party's platform, embracing a larger role for government in addressing social and economic issues. demographic transition model example ap human geography The modern Democratic Party generally supports social programs, environmental protection, and civil rights. Learn more about the Democratic Party on Wikipedia.

FAQs

What was the main difference between the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans?

The Federalists favored a strong central government and a national bank, while the Democratic-Republicans advocated for states' rights and opposed a national bank.

How did Andrew Jackson change the Democratic Party?

Andrew Jackson broadened the party's appeal by championing the common man, expanding suffrage, and opposing the Second Bank of the United States.

What is agrarianism?

Agrarianism is a social philosophy that values rural life and agriculture as the foundation of a healthy society.

What is the spoils system? demystifying mushrooms

The spoils system is a practice where a political party, after winning an election, gives government jobs to its supporters, friends, and relatives as a reward for working toward victory.

What are some key issues supported by the modern Democratic Party?

The modern Democratic Party generally supports social programs, environmental protection, and civil rights.

Summary

The Democratic Party, originating as the Democratic-Republican Party, has undergone significant transformations throughout American history. From its early emphasis on states' rights and agrarianism to its later embrace of a larger role for government in addressing social and economic issues, the Democratic Party has consistently adapted to the changing needs and values of the American people. Understanding its evolution is essential for understanding American political history as a whole and crucial for your APUSH Exam.