There was a tie in the electoral college between the two candidates. That threw the election to the House of Representatives. Henry Clay from Kentucky did not trust or like Jackson. He uses all of his political influence to earn Adams enough votes to win the Presidency. Months later, Adams appointed Clay to be Secretary of State. Jackson believed that the two men brokered a deal behind the scenes that cost him the Presidency.
For the next four years Jackson and his supporters began to campaign for the election of 1828. Jackson would make appearances in towns and cities across the nation. Historians consider the election of 1828 the first modern election. Both candidates had songs, slogans, advertisements, and even went to the people to try and win their vote.
While Jackson and his supporters focused on his record as a senator and as a general, the supporters of Adams focused on Jackson's personal life. Jackson was portrayed as over ambitious and not trust worthy. Rachel Jackon's first marriage and accusations of adultery were brought up.
Jackson was a man that many Americans felt like they could relate to. It showed at the ballots as well. Adams lost by a landslide, and Jackson was swept into office. The toll of the campaign and the unwanted attention took a toll on Rachel though. Shortly after Jackson's victory, she passed away of a heart attack. Jackson would blame Adams and his followers for the demise of his wife.
Jackson's Inauguration would be remebered for the raucous and rowdy behavior of his supporters. Thousands of people showed up at the White House creating chaos for the staff and endangering the life of the President. Jackson would be escorted out of the White House by some assistants who were concerned for his well being and safety.
The new President sought to protect the rights of his American citizens by destroying what he believed to be the enemy of democracy: The National Bank.
No H.W. tonight.
No comments:
Post a Comment