Existing comment:
American Origins
In the decades between 1820 and 1840, the United States was a country of energy and rapid change. This was the era of canals and steamboats, the beginning of the railroads. Americans sailed the seven seas; they pushed forward in commerce and industry. "No man in America is contented to be poor, or expected to continue so," was an oft-repeated sentiment. This zeal for improvement went beyond worldly goods, permeating education and contributing to the religious enthusiasm that was sweeping the nation.
Among the white male populace, a new spirit of democracy and egalitarianism was engaging Americans everywhere, characterized by Andrew Jackson, the dominant figure of the age. He rode into office as a champion of the common man. Rewarding his friends and punishing his enemies, Jackson pushed back the Indians and demolished the Bank of the United States. In reaction, the Whig Party was born. |