Major Changes In American Politics Between 1812 And 1840

The period between 1812 and 1840 was marked by significant changes in American politics. The War of 1812, the Missouri Compromise, and the rise of Andrew Jackson as a political figure all played a role in shaping the political landscape of the country during this time. These events led to a shift in power from the traditional elite to the common man, as well as an increased focus on issues of federal power and states' rights. Three factors that contributed to this change in American politics were the changing role of the federal government, the expansion of voting rights, and the rise of popular political movements.

One of the changes in American politics was the changing role of the federal government. This is evident in James Madison's veto message from 1817 where he expresses his difficulty in reconciling a bill for internal improvements with the Constitution (POV - Doc 2). This document reveals a shift in the understanding of the federal government's role in the economy and infrastructure, and the growing debate over the

This is exemplified by the Cherokee statement in 1829 where the Cherokees express their opposition to being removed from their land and their desire to remain on the land of their fathers (HC - Doc 4). This document demonstrates how the political power of the common man was increasing and how the traditional elite's grip on power was weakening. The growing political power of marginalized groups, specifically native Americans, was a reflection of the growing interest in democracy and the expansion of voting rights in the United States at the time. The veto message from Andrew Jackson in 1832 also shows how Jackson's belief in equal protection under the law and his opposition to artificial distinctions and exclusive privileges, demonstrates his support for the expansion of voting rights to the common man (Doc