Describe Jackson's feelings and actions towards the National Bank
Jackson had strong negative feelings towards the National Bank of the United States. He viewed it as a powerful and corrupt institution that benefited the wealthy elite at the expense of the common people. Jackson believed that the bank wielded too much economic and political influence and was detrimental to the nation's economic growth.
As president, Jackson took decisive actions against the National Bank. He vetoed the recharter bill in 1832, effectively killing the bank. He argued that the bank was unconstitutional and favored the privileged few. In his veto message, Jackson famously stated, "It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes."
Furthermore, Jackson ordered the removal of federal deposits from the bank and placed them in state-chartered banks, known as "pet banks." This move further weakened the influence and power of the National Bank.
In his second term, Jackson continued his anti-bank stance, ultimately leading to the bank's demise in 1836 when its charter expired. Jackson's actions and rhetoric against the National Bank solidified his reputation as a champion of the common man and a fierce opponent of the wealthy elite.