Lecture Notes: Evolution of the Presidency in U.S. History

Founding Fathers' Vision

• Role of President: Initially viewed as the weaker branch of government.
  • Congress was intended to be the leading force.
  • President's function was to execute decisions made by Congress.
• Selection of President:
  • Did not envision direct election by the people.
  • Believed average Americans were not equipped to make wise choices.
  • Presidential electors chosen from state insiders were responsible for electing the President.

Shift in Political Dynamics: Andrew Jackson's Influence

• Andrew Jackson's New Vision:
  • Advocated for the people electing the President.
  • Mobilized popular support through rallies and demonstrations.
  • Revolutionized American politics making the President a central figure.
• Jackson's Presidency:
  • Viewed himself as the conductor of government, not just a member.
  • Asserted a special leadership role due to being elected by all people.
  • Believed in imposing his will on Congress and the courts.

Political Tactics and Strategies

• Spoils System:
  • Fired federal employees, replacing them with his supporters.
  • Coined the term "To the victor go the spoils."
• Use of Veto:
  • Frequently used veto power as leverage over Congress.

Founding of the Democratic Party

• Rise of Political Parties:
  • Political parties initially seen as a negative.
  • Jackson believed parties empowered average Americans.
• Impact of the Democratic Party:
  • Concentrated power within the presidency.
  • Became a machine for securing elections.
  • Led to the establishment of the two-party system.

Consequences of Jackson's Presidency

• Strengthened Presidency:
  • Created an environment where the President often leads government direction.
  • Relationship with Congress altered, reducing its power as a check on presidential authority.
• Long-Term Effects:
  • The ideal of a powerful president became entrenched.
  • Emphasized the need for careful selection of presidents to ensure trustworthiness.

Conclusion

• Historical Context:

  • Founding fathers feared a powerful president.
  • Modern election of presidents requires wisdom to avoid potential misuse of power.

• Reflection:

  • The evolution of the presidency shows a shift from the founders' original vision to a modern reality where the president holds significant authority.