A Patriot's History of the United States Chapter 7, Part 5 The Little Magician Takes the Stage

Introduction

This tutorial provides a summary and key points from Chapter 7, Part 5 of "A Patriot's History of the United States," which focuses on the political landscape during the era of Martin Van Buren, often referred to as "The Little Magician." Understanding this period is crucial for grasping how early American politics evolved and the significant events that shaped the nation.

Step 1: Understand the Context of Van Buren's Presidency

• Martin Van Buren served as the 8th President of the United States from 1837 to 1841.
• He was a key figure in the formation of the Democratic Party and helped organize political strategies that became standard in American politics.
• His presidency followed Andrew Jackson's, creating a strong party system that influenced future elections.

Step 2: Explore Van Buren's Political Strategies

• Van Buren was known for his skillful manipulation of political alliances and public opinion.
• He implemented a system of party loyalty that encouraged voters to identify with the Democratic Party.
• Understand the concept of “spoils system” which Van Buren employed to reward loyal party members with government positions.

Step 3: Analyze Key Events During Van Buren’s Term

• The Panic of 1837 occurred shortly after Van Buren took office, leading to an economic crisis that affected his presidency.
• Review how this financial panic influenced public perception of his leadership and policy decisions.
• Examine the impact of the economic downturn on the Democratic Party and the subsequent rise of the Whig Party.

Step 4: Discuss Van Buren's Legacy

• Reflect on how Van Buren's efforts to create a cohesive party structure influenced modern political practices.
• Consider the long-term effects of his presidency on subsequent political movements and parties in the U.S.
• Evaluate his role in shaping the political dialogue around issues such as economic policy and states' rights.

Conclusion

Martin Van Buren, as "The Little Magician," played a pivotal role in early American political history. His strategies in party organization and response to economic challenges have left a lasting imprint on the political landscape. To further explore this topic, consider reading additional chapters of "A Patriot's History of the United States" or studying Van Buren's influence on specific policies in later administrations.