4.8 Jackson and Federal Power

Jackson vs. the Bank of the United States

Andrew Jackson distrusted centralized economic power, viewing the Second Bank of the United States as an elitist institution favoring wealthy interests. He vetoed its recharter in 1832 and withdrew federal deposits, weakening the national bank. Critics called him "King Andrew" for wielding executive power aggressively, expanding presidential authority beyond prior norms.

The Nullification Crisis

South Carolina, led by John C. Calhoun, declared the 1828 and 1832 tariffs null and void within the state, asserting states' rights via the doctrine of nullification. Jackson responded forcefully, backing the Force Bill to enable military enforcement, while Congress passed a compromise tariff. The crisis revealed deep tensions over federal authority versus state sovereignty.

Indian Removal and Federal Power

Jackson supported the Indian Removal Act (1830), forcibly relocating Native peoples like the Cherokee westward on the Trail of Tears. Though the Supreme Court in *Worcester v. Georgia* (1832) ruled in favor of Cherokee sovereignty, Jackson ignored the ruling, demonstrating his willingness to expand executive power even against judicial checks.

Key terms

Second Bank of the United States

National bank Jackson vetoed rechartering in 1832, viewing it as favoring elite interests.

Nullification Crisis

1832–33 conflict where South Carolina declared federal tariffs void, prompting Jackson to threaten force.

Force Bill

Legislation authorizing Jackson to use military force to enforce federal tariff laws in South Carolina.

Indian Removal Act (1830)

Law authorizing forced relocation of Native American tribes to land west of the Mississippi River.

Worcester v. Georgia (1832)

Supreme Court case affirming Cherokee sovereignty; Jackson ignored the ruling and proceeded with removal.

Try an AP-style question

The Indian Removal Act (1830) led to…

1. the Louisiana Purchase
2. the Trail of Tears
3. the Oregon Trail
4. the Missouri Compromise