Why Was It Called The Era Of The Common Man

Introduction

The phrase "Era of the Common Man" refers to a pivotal period in American history that unfolded during the 1820s and 1830s, characterized by a dramatic shift in political power and social ideals. This era marked a departure from the elitist governance of the early republic toward a more inclusive democratic system that emphasized the importance of the average citizen. The term is most closely associated with Andrew Jackson's presidency and the rise of Jacksonian Democracy, which championed the rights and political participation of ordinary Americans. Understanding why this period was called the Era of the Common Man requires exploring its defining characteristics, the social and political changes it embodied, and its lasting impact on American democracy.

Detailed Explanation

The Era of the Common Man emerged as a response to the growing discontent with the aristocratic tendencies of the early American political system. Prior to this period, voting rights were largely restricted to white male property owners, effectively excluding the majority of the population from political participation. The election of Andrew Jackson in 1828 symbolized a new direction for the nation—one that celebrated the virtues of the common citizen and challenged the entrenched power of elites. Jackson, who came from humble beginnings and lacked the formal education of his predecessors, embodied the democratic ideal that anyone, regardless of background, could rise to the highest office in the land.

This era was defined by several key developments that expanded democratic participation. Chief among these was the widespread adoption of universal white male suffrage, as states began to remove property requirements for voting. This change dramatically increased the electorate, allowing more ordinary citizens to have a voice in government. Additionally, the period saw the rise of political parties and campaigns that actively courted the common man, using slogans, rallies, and symbols to mobilize voters. The concept of Manifest Destiny also gained traction during this time, reflecting a belief in the common man's right to expand and settle the American frontier.

Step-by-Step or Concept Breakdown

To understand why this period was called the Era of the Common Man, it's helpful to break down its core components:

1. Expansion of Suffrage: The removal of property and tax requirements for voting in most states meant that a much larger segment of the population could participate in elections. This democratization of the electorate was a fundamental shift from the previous era.

2. Rise of Populist Politics: Politicians like Andrew Jackson positioned themselves as champions of the common people, often portraying themselves as outsiders fighting against corrupt elites. This rhetoric resonated with many voters who felt marginalized by the existing political establishment.

3. Cultural Shift: There was a growing belief that the common man, with his practical wisdom and moral integrity, was the true backbone of the nation. This contrasted sharply with the earlier emphasis on educated elites and aristocratic values.

4. Political Reforms: The era saw the introduction of new practices such as the spoils system, where government jobs were awarded to political supporters, and the direct election of presidential electors in many states, further empowering ordinary citizens.

Real Examples

Several events and policies from this period illustrate why it was called the Era of the Common Man:

• Andrew Jackson's Election (1828): Jackson's victory was seen as a triumph for the common people over the established political elite. His inauguration was marked by a raucous celebration attended by thousands of ordinary citizens, symbolizing the new democratic spirit.

• The Bank War: Jackson's opposition to the Second Bank of the United States was framed as a battle against a privileged institution that favored the wealthy. His veto of the bank's recharter was celebrated by many as a victory for the common man.

• Indian Removal Act (1830): While deeply controversial and tragic in its consequences, this policy was justified by proponents as necessary for the expansion and prosperity of ordinary American settlers.

• Rise of Labor Movements: The era also saw the beginnings of organized labor movements, as workers began to assert their rights and demand better conditions, reflecting the growing political consciousness of the common man.

Scientific or Theoretical Perspective

From a theoretical standpoint, the Era of the Common Man can be understood through the lens of democratic theory and social contract philosophy. Thinkers like Thomas Jefferson and later Jacksonian Democrats believed that a government's legitimacy rested on the consent of the governed, and that this consent should be as broad as possible. The expansion of suffrage and the emphasis on popular sovereignty were practical applications of these Enlightenment ideals.

Additionally, the era reflected a shift in the understanding of citizenship and national identity. The common man was increasingly seen not just as a subject of the state, but as an active participant in shaping its destiny. This participatory model of democracy laid the groundwork for future expansions of rights and representation in American society.

Common Mistakes or Misunderstandings

One common misunderstanding is that the Era of the Common Man was truly inclusive. In reality, the benefits of this democratic expansion were limited to white men; women, African Americans, and Native Americans were largely excluded from political participation and often suffered as a result of policies enacted during this period. Another misconception is that the era was solely about political reforms; in fact, it also encompassed significant cultural and economic changes that reshaped American society.

It's also important to recognize that while the era celebrated the common man, it did not necessarily lead to greater economic equality. Many of the policies of the time, such as the promotion of laissez-faire economics and the expansion of slavery in new territories, actually reinforced existing social and economic hierarchies.

FAQs

Q: Why was Andrew Jackson considered the symbol of the common man? A: Andrew Jackson was seen as a symbol of the common man because of his humble origins, military heroism, and reputation as a champion of ordinary citizens against elite interests. His election marked a break from the aristocratic leadership of previous presidents.

Q: Did the Era of the Common Man apply to all Americans? A: No, the benefits of this era were largely limited to white men. Women, African Americans, and Native Americans were excluded from the political and social advancements of the time.

Q: What were some key policies of the Era of the Common Man? A: Key policies included the expansion of suffrage, opposition to the national bank, the Indian Removal Act, and the promotion of westward expansion.

Q: How did the Era of the Common Man influence future American democracy? A: It set a precedent for broader political participation and the idea that government should be responsive to the will of the people, influencing future movements for suffrage and civil rights.

Conclusion

The Era of the Common Man was a transformative period in American history that redefined the relationship between citizens and their government. By expanding suffrage, championing populist politics, and celebrating the virtues of ordinary Americans, this era laid the foundation for a more inclusive democracy—albeit one that still excluded many groups. Understanding why this period was called the Era of the Common Man helps us appreciate both the progress made and the limitations of this pivotal chapter in the nation's democratic evolution.