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HIST-144

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N ame:______________________ HIS-144 – Evolution of Democracy Worksheet 1. Compare and contrast Jefferson’s democracy with Jackson’s democracy. Include Jefferson and Jackson’s respective backgrounds, and how their backgrounds contributed to the development of their view of democracy. Then explain whom each believed should participate in the democratic processes and/or hold public office? Using your notes from class, also explain three (3) ways democracy changed or expanded from the time of Jefferson to Jackson. (350-500 words) Christians who identify as fundamentalists take the Bible literally, especially the account in Genesis that God created the universe and all living things in six literal terms. Their rejection of Darwinism stems from their belief that the ideas of evolution conflict with their sincerely held religious beliefs. The conflict in the debate stems from the apparent contradiction between the scientific explanation of evolution and the literal reading of the biblical account of creation. It illustrates the complex relationship between religion and science. Biographer Irving Brant described the 50-year friendship between James Madison and Thomas Jefferson as "perfectly balanced." (Madison James, n.d.) Democracy underwent significant changes and expansions from the era of Thomas Jefferson to Andrew Jackson, reflecting the evolving socio-political landscape of the United States during that period. The expansion of suffrage meant a decisive change. At first, the right to vote, according to Jeffersonian ideals, was limited mostly to white male homeowners. Jackson's democracy, on the other hand, witnessed greater suffrage for white male citizens, emphasizing the principle of universal white male suffrage. This change, excluding women and minority groups, marked a significant expansion of democratic participation. The rise of political parties and the emergence of an organized system played a central role in shaping the democratic landscape. The presidency of Jeffersonand#039 saw the birth of the Democratic-Republican Party, while the era of Jacksonand#039 saw the rise of the Democratic Party. The competitive nature of these parties increased political participation and contributed to the development of a more dynamic and inclusive democratic process. The change in the nomination process was an example of a move towards a more democratic selection of candidates. Jefferson's era was a more informal system where candidates were often chosen by party elites. In contrast, the Jacksonian democracy adopted a system of conventions that allowed a wider range of party members to participate in the candidate selection process. This reform increased the democratization of the nomination process and gave party members a more direct voice. From the time of Jefferson to Jackson, democracy in the United States developed with the expansion of voting rights, the development of political parties, and the democratization of the nomination process. These changes, although not entirely comprehensive, set the stage for the later expansion of democratic principles across the American political landscape. 2. Using the resource, “Fragment on the Constitution and Union,” and your notes from class, explain the relationship that Lincoln claims exists between the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Does this more closely align with Jefferson’s view of democracy or with Jackson’s? Explain. How do Lincoln’s ideas impact democracy in general? (350-500 words) The "Fragment on the Constitution and Union" by Abraham Lincoln reveals a deep link between the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, presenting the latter as an organic continuation and real-world application of the timeless ideas expressed in the former. Lincoln said that the Constitution is the "frame of silver" that goes with the "apple of gold" that is the Declaration. It suggests that these eternal values are consolidated and translated into a dependable and orderly system of government, rather than diverging. This viewpoint, which emphasizes the ongoing relevance of the Declaration of Independence's ideas in forming the constitutional fabric, strongly corresponds with the democratic vision advanced by Thomas Jefferson. Both Lincoln and Jefferson envision a democratic society based on the defense of natural rights and the consent of the governed, with the Constitution acting as a crucial tool to give these fundamental principles form and content. Lincoln's beliefs on

democracy continue to echo in the annals of constitutional philosophy, casting doubt on interpretations that deviate from the fundamental principles of liberty and equality found in the Declaration. Lincoln's insistence that the Declaration and the Constitution are inextricably linked promotes the idea of a flexible and dynamic democratic system. This perspective advocates for a dynamic and responsive democratic structure capable of adapting to changing circumstances while steadfastly remaining true to its core values. Lincoln's viewpoint underscores the imperative of a constitutional framework that aligns with the nation's fundamental principles, providing a guiding force for democratic governance. By highlighting the enduring relevance of foundational principles in shaping the nation's trajectory, Lincoln significantly contributes to a democratic framework that not only respects individual rights and promotes equality but also recognizes the Constitution as a living document deeply interwoven with the timeless ideals articulated in the Declaration. Lincoln's perspective fosters a nuanced and layered understanding of democracy, emphasizing its inherent capacity to adapt, grow, and uphold its core principles throughout the ever-evolving course of history. Lincoln provided evidence to support his claim that "our fathers, who framed the Government" gave Congress the authority to forbid the institution of slavery from expanding into new territories. He stated, "True, we do, in common with 'our fathers, who framed the Government under which we live,' declare our belief that slavery is wrong" (Wise, 2020). 3. Identify at least one way democracy can be improved or expanded today. Explain how that can be accomplished or put into place. Then, explain whether your proposal(s) align more with Jefferson’s view of democracy or with Jackson’s view of democracy and why. (250-350 words) Enhancing civic involvement and education, especially in communities and schools, is one approach to modernize and broaden democracy. A vibrant democracy depends on an informed and involved populace. To put this into practice, educators should include comprehensive civic education in their curricula, instructing pupils on the duties of citizenship, the Constitution, and the democratic process. Community programs and initiatives may also give people access to tools and forums that help them stay educated, get involved in their community, and have meaningful conversations about significant problems. This plan is more in line with the democratic philosophy of Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson supported informed citizens who participated fully in the democratic process. He underlined the need of having an informed populace that is able to decide rationally in the interests of society. This plan represents Jefferson's ideal of an informed populace participating in the democratic government of the country by increasing civic education and promoting active engagement. The essential principle of Jefferson's democratic aspirations was that the democratic experiment could not succeed unless the people were informed and involved. The concept upholds the democratic ideals of informed decision-making, group engagement, and the pursuit of the common good by educating individuals and promoting their active participation. A well-informed and involved electorate capable of upholding the democratic principles envisioned by the Founding Fathers is the ultimate aim of democracy, and Jefferson's focus on the role of education in molding responsible citizens is in line with this objective. How Jeffersonian and Jacksonian democracies understood the Constitution and the distinction between legislative and executive authority was one of their main points of contention (Charts, 2023).

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