The Bank War and Popular Support
In Grade 8 US history, students learn about the Bank War of 1832, in which Andrew Jackson vetoed the recharter of the Second Bank of the United States and used it to his political advantage. Jackson framed the Bank as a corrupt institution serving the wealthy elite, and his veto message became a powerful political document that appealed to ordinary Americans. Far from hurting Jackson, the episode boosted his popularity and led to his landslide reelection. This topic is covered in History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 4.
Key Concepts
In 1832, Henry Clay and other opponents attempted to use the Second Bank of the United States to derail Andrew Jackson’s reelection. They pushed a bill through Congress to renew the Bank’s charter early, hoping a veto would cost Jackson popular support.
Jackson did veto the bill, but he successfully framed the Bank as a corrupt institution of privilege that favored the wealthy over the " common man " (the ordinary, non elite citizens like farmers and laborers).
Common Questions
What was the Bank War of 1832?
The Bank War was a political struggle between President Andrew Jackson and supporters of the Second Bank of the United States. Jackson vetoed the recharter of the Bank, framing it as a corrupt institution that favored the wealthy.
Why did Andrew Jackson oppose the Second Bank of the United States?
Jackson believed the Bank served wealthy Eastern elites and foreign investors rather than ordinary Americans. He saw it as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic government.
How did the Bank War affect Andrew Jackson's popularity?
Instead of hurting Jackson, his veto of the Bank recharter increased his popularity. Ordinary voters saw Jackson as standing up for the common people against a powerful elite institution.
Which textbook covers the Bank War in Grade 8?
History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 4: Launching the New Republic, covers the Bank War and Jackson's use of popular support to defeat his political opponents.
What happened to the Second Bank of the United States after Jackson's veto?
After Jackson vetoed the recharter, he also removed federal deposits from the Bank and put them in state banks. The Bank's charter expired in 1836 and it ceased to be a national institution.