He Brought the People with Him: Jackson and Patronage Politics
As Jackson takes office, he and his followers are eager to extend the opportunities for government service. Many positions in the Executive Branch had been held by the Eastern establishment for a generation or more. Although Jackson is widely critic...
Political Stalemate: Political Stalemate
For several decades after Congress ceases to battle over Reconstruction there is political equilibrium between Democrats and Republicans. The outcome of presidential elections generally pivots on who can win four states: New York, New Jersey, Connec...
Political Stalemate: Activist vs. Passive Government
The campaign of 1888 between Grover Cleveland and Benjamin Harrison plays up the economic differences between the parties. It is also one of the closest elections in American history with Harrison winning an electoral majority but losing the popular...
Political Stalemate: Mudslinging Election of 1884, The
In the presidential election of 1884 Senator James G. Blaine, once the head of the Half-Breeds, challenges and defeats incumbent president Chester A. Arthur for the Republican nomination. The Democrats nominate New York governor Grover Cleveland. Ch...
He Brought the People with Him: Andrew Jackson Ushers in New Era with Election Victory in 1828
By the time the 1828 presidential election rolls around, the party has divided itself into National Republicans-Adams and his supporters-and Democratic Republicans-Andrew Jackson and his followers. The campaign on both sides degenerates into a war o...
Warrior to Priest...Presidents of the Early 1900s: Woodrow Wilson and The New Freedom
Woodrow Wilson is a bold and forceful leader clearly in charge of the Executive branch. In legislative matters, he skillfully uses his position as party leader to solidify support for his program in Congress. Wilson sees a strong link between popula...