Why was Andrew Jackson considered a "common man" political wise, not how he lived. I mean what three or two events and decisions did Jackson do during his presidency that made him the citizen president?
http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h154.html
http://www.historycentral.com/Bio/presidents/jackson.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacksonian_democracy
Andrew Jackson was often referred to as the "common man" president because of his policies and actions that favored the average citizen over the elites. Here are three events and decisions during his presidency that contributed to this perception:
1. Universal White Male Suffrage: One of the most notable measures taken by Jackson to empower the common man was his advocacy for universal white male suffrage. At that time, voting rights were typically limited to property-owning white males. Jackson believed that all free white men should have the right to vote, regardless of their wealth or social status. This expansion of suffrage greatly expanded political representation and made the political system more democratic.
2. The Spoils System: Jackson introduced what became known as the "spoils system" or the policy of replacing existing government officials with his own supporters upon taking office. This decision aimed to break the hold of the political elites and create opportunities for ordinary citizens to participate in government. By appointing people who were loyal to him, Jackson sought to promote merit and ensure that government positions were accessible to a wider range of people, rather than being restricted to a privileged few.
3. Opposition to the National Bank: Jackson vehemently opposed the existence and power of the National Bank, which he viewed as an institution that privileged the wealthy elite at the expense of the common man. He vetoed the recharter of the National Bank, effectively shutting it down. Jackson believed that banks should be accountable to the people and that a decentralized banking system would benefit the average citizen. This decision was seen as a significant blow to the economic and political influence of the privileged classes.
These events and decisions demonstrated Jackson's commitment to empowering ordinary citizens and challenging the entrenched power of elites. His emphasis on democracy, expanded suffrage, and the dismantling of elitist institutions cemented his reputation as a "common man" president.