A Mass Democracy: Introduction
The 1820s and 1830s were a time of change for the United States. No longer a fledgling republic, during these decades the nation boasted a growing population, an expanding economy, and a more assertive diplomatic presence. The political scene in America was also changing at this time.
Though the franchise was still denied to women and people of color, democracy had spread to a greater number of white men than ever before. States eliminated or lowered property requirements for voting and holding office. Direct elections increased. For example, by 1828, Americans voted directly for the presidential electors in the Electoral College in all but two states. This replaced the old system of state legislatures choosing the electors.
The rise of popular participation created a new political order in the United States. No leader better reflected this new era than Andrew Jackson.
In this section, you will learn about the spread of mass democracy in the United States during the age of the common America.
