In the years following the War of 1812, the first evidence emerged of sectionalism which would ultimately lead to the Civil War. Ironically, in the years preceding that time the nation grew significantly overall and was heralded by a sentiment of nationalism throughout the country. Economic and territorial growth both contributed to the postwar expansion. These were also factors in the resurgence of nationalism along with several others. This positive movement was not without some turbulence. Several factors led to the postwar expansion. Most of these factors were the consequences of lessons learned during the War of 1812. It effectively exposed the inadequacy of the current transportation and financial systems. Following the closing …show more content…
Up until that time, new states had joined the union in an almost equal balance. The admission of Missouri, a slave state, would have given the south power over the north. Maine, a northern part of Massachusetts seeking statehood, offered a compromise where the remaining territory of the Louisiana purchase north of the southern part of Missouri would be prohibited from slavery. (American History, p227)
Perhaps on of the biggest driving factors in the growth of nationalism were several decisions handed down by the Supreme Court. Cases such as, Dartmouth College v. Woodward and McCulloch v/ Maryland, not only signified restrictions on state government, but also highlighted the superiority of the federal governments over the states. Ultimately they further promoted the growth and development of the United States. (American History, p228)
The United States steadily grew in a positive direction during the years following the War of 1812. Several events occurred that would shape the nation in the years to come. The nation enjoyed almost a decade of nationalism before the pendulum would swing back towards …show more content…
He believed that officeholders at that time could argue for their own exceptional performance since the duties were often plain and simple. After he was elected, Jackson began removing these entrenched officials and replacing them with his own. He ultimately effectively established a system of patronage, aka the spoils system, which still exists in American politics today. (American History, p240)
Jackson was deeply committed to preserving the union. When the concept of nullification first appeared he viewed it as a direct threat to such. Although it was an alternative to secession, it still promoted the states ability to separate themselves from the federal government by voiding federal law. Jackson stood firm in his interpretation that nullification was treason and its supporters were traitors. During the crisis of 1832, he strengthened the federal forts and made preparations to utilize the military as a means of enforcement. (American History,