Americans of all ages, all conditions, all minds constantly unite. Not only do they have commercial and industrial associations in which all take part, but they also have a thousand other kinds: religious, moral, grave, futile, very general and very particular, immense and very small; Americans use associations to give fêtes, to found seminaries, to build inns, to raise churches, to distribute books, to send missionaries to the antipodes; in this manner they create hospitals, prisons, schools. - Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America
Use this quote from Alexis de Tocqueville’s book Democracy in America to answer the following question:
What changes are happening in the US under President Andrew Jackson that support the quote?
Under President Andrew Jackson, there were significant changes happening in the US that support the quote from Alexis de Tocqueville's book. President Jackson was known for promoting democracy and expanding the power of the common people. This led to increased political participation and a sense of unity among the American population.
One change that supports the quote is the expansion of suffrage. During Jackson's presidency, the voting rights were extended to a larger portion of the population, including non-landowners and white males who didn't meet previous property requirements. This allowed more Americans to participate in the political process and join political associations.
Another change is the growth of associationism. As mentioned in the quote, Americans used associations for a wide range of purposes, including religious, moral, and social activities. Jacksonian democracy emphasized the importance of voluntary associations and individual participation in civil society. This led to the formation of various groups and organizations focused on different causes and interests.
Additionally, President Jackson's policies aimed to reduce the influence of wealthy elites and centralized power. He advocated for a more decentralized government and opposed monopolies. This shift in power dynamics allowed for a greater involvement of ordinary citizens in commercial and industrial associations, as well as other areas mentioned in the quote such as education, healthcare, and philanthropy.
Overall, Jackson's presidency witnessed an increased sense of unity and participation among Americans, as they took part in various associations and activities to address social, economic, and political needs. These changes aligned with the notion of Americans of all ages, conditions, and minds constantly uniting, as described by Tocqueville.