DAY 3 LEAP PREP - Was Andrew Jackson a Hero or a Villain?
Andrew Jackson served as president from 1829 to 1837. Many Americans admired him because he presented himself as a champion of the "common man." He expanded voting rights for white men without property and challenged powerful institutions like the national bank. However, Jackson is also criticized for his treatment of Native Americans. He supported the Indian Removal Act, which led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes along the Trail of Tears. Thousands died during these removals. Historians continue to debate whether Andrew Jackson should be remembered as a hero who strengthened democracy or a villain who abused power and caused great harm.
Group 1
Activity 2 – Document Set (Analyze Perspectives)
Source 1.1
Source A: Political Cartoon
"King Andrew the First" – This political cartoon portrays Andrew Jackson as a king rather than a president, criticizing him for abusing his power, especially his frequent use of the veto. The crown, throne, and symbols of authority suggest that Jackson removed the Constitution and ruled like a monarch, threatening democracy instead of protecting it.
Source 1.2
"It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes. Distinctions in society will always exist under every just government. Equality of talents, of education, or of wealth cannot be produced by human institutions. But every man is equally entitled to protection by law."
Source B: Speech by Andrew Jackson
Jackson defending his use of presidential power and presenting himself as a protector of the common people
Source 1.3
"President Jackson has fearlessly taken the side of the people against the wealthy and powerful. He has shown that the government was not created for the benefit of a privileged few, but for the equal protection of all."
Source C: Letter from a Supporter
From the Washington Globe, a pro-Jackson newspaper, 1832
Source 1.4
"It is impossible that we can consent to abandon the land of our fathers. We have neither committed any crime nor violated any treaty. Yet we are threatened with removal by force without regard to our rights or our welfare."
Source D: Letter from a Native American Perspective
John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, 1836
Question 1a
What message is the cartoon sending about Jackson? Does this source portray Jackson as a hero or a villain?
Question 1b
How does Jackson describe his own leadership? Why might this source be biased?
Question 1c
Why does this author support Jackson? What values does this source emphasize?
Question 1d
How does this source describe the effects of Jackson’s policies? How does perspective shape this account?
Group 2
Directions: Write a complete extended response that addresses the prompt below and includes:
- A clear claim
- Two accurate pieces of evidence (one from a source and one from your social studies knowledge)
- Reasoning that explains how and why the evidence supports your claim
Question 2a
Was Andrew Jackson a hero or a villain?
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