Andrew Jackson rose from humble beginnings to become the seventh president of the United States in 1828. Jackson's rise to popularity and power coincided with the rise of democracy in America. Although President Jackson was one of the most influential presidents in history, he remains one of the most controversial. During Jackson's administration, he supported the will of the people, but he neglected the minority and abused his power as president. President Andrew Jackson has rightly been referred to as “the people's president” because he embodies the conflicted history of democracy in the United States. A number of social and economic changes occurred in the Union during the 1800s that created the ideal environment for Andrew Jackson's rise to power. The new market economy “produced a more stratified and unequal society, while national politics became more democratic.” (Davidson p.207) The Panic of 1819 led to America's first major depression. (Davidson p.201) Many Americans believed that the depression was caused by politics and corruption in the federal government and the national bank. In turn, Americans demanded equality of opportunity and “agreed that one of the primary purposes of government was to safeguard opportunity.” (Davidson p.207) Thus, the new market economy and the call for equality of opportunity led to increased democracy and increased voter participation. The 1824 election only further fueled public suspicion of government corruption. The House of Representatives decided the 1824 election since no candidate had a majority in the Electoral College, although Jackson won the popular vote. When Henry Clay, Speaker of the House of Representatives, used his political influence and declared...... middle of paper ...... the timing of his presidency, the rise of democracy and its beliefs shared by Americans. people who elevated him to the rank of “President of the People”. It could be argued that Jackson did not deserve this title because he failed to serve “everyone.” America exists thanks to the sacrifices of all people, Native Americans, African slaves; white European settlers all played important roles in the development of the nation. Under the Jackson administration, discrimination against blacks and Indians deepened and increased. The number of slaves increased and Indians were once again forced from their lands. All of these actions by Jackson in reflection constitute horrible crimes against humanity, but they also contributed to the development of the nation as it exists today. History has shaped America, we can't change the past, we can hopefully learn from it..