Jacksonian Democracy
A political philosophy in the US that expanded suffrage to most white men over the age of 21
Real World Example
Jacksonian democracy emerged during the early 19th century as the United States was expanding, emphasizing the rights of the "common man" and promoting greater democracy for white males. It responded to the growing demand for more inclusive voting rights and aimed to dismantle elite political control held by wealthy landowners. This movement was important because it shifted power towards a broader segment of the population, although it notably excluded women and people of color. Today, the principles of Jacksonian democracy still matter because they laid the foundation for ongoing conversations about voting rights and political participation. For example, efforts to make voting more accessible, like mail-in ballots and extended voting hours, aim to ensure that more people can have their voices heard, continuing the push for inclusivity in democracy.
