Unit 3 Opinion Paper

Andrew Jackson’s Presidency

The Removal of the Five Civilized Tribes

1. With regard to this issue, what was Jackson’s role? Who were his adversaries?

Jackson’s role on this issue was that he sided with the South and wanted the “Civilized Tribes” kicked out of their lands. He still believed that they were “savages” even though they were very much like everyone else around them. Jackson’s adversary, though the five tribes is an obvious one, is Chief Justice John Marshall. Though he was originally all for the ruling against the Native Americans in 1831 in the Cherokee Nation vs. Georgia case, he changed his mind just the next year in the Worcester vs. Georgia case.

2. What was the final outcome of the issue? Analyze whether Jackson was coming from a states’ rights perspective or from the point of view that the national government was supreme?

The final outcome was the Trail of Tears, though this was during Martin van Buren’s presidency. I think that Jackson has the point of view of someone that believes that the national government is supreme.

3. Ultimately, did Jackson favor more of a state’s rights viewpoint or one of supremacy of the national government?

Jackson definitely held more of a “national government is supreme” kind of view. Though he did favor a limited government, he didn’t think that the states should have as much power as the government.

4. Finally, what influence did Jackson have on this new Democratic Party and how did he shape the presidency?

Jackson has shaped the presidency because of his background as a general. He had different views because he had been in many wars before he became president.

Reflection

I struggled with this one. A lot. I couldn't find much to talk about for this paper. I did not feel strongly about Andrew Jackson or his presidency. And I ended this assignment with a not very good grade. But, whenever I think about whether or not another assignment is not very good, I just look to this one and tell myself, "This is what you should not be doing, work harder."

#history #Fall2015