Andrew Jackson Campaign Items
During the election of 1824, Jackson won a plurality of both the electoral and the popular vote. The House of Representatives, however, decided the election in favor of John Quincy Adams. Four years later, leading the newly formed Democratic Party, Jackson adopted a much more aggressive campaign style, and his efforts led to a decisive victory. This was the first election effectively decided by the popular vote. Several medals and pendants from his successful campaigns represent Jackson as the “Hero of New Orleans, ” referring to his military success during the War of 1812.
Jackson Portrait Sewing Box
“Victory To Jackson” Portrait Sewing Box, ca. 1832.
Sewing boxes were unique to the campaigns of 1828 and 1832. Oddly enough, this artifact was probably made in France. A likeness of Jackson in his general’s uniform adorns the inside cover, recalling Jackson’s heroism on the battlefield. Although women were not allowed to vote, campaign organizers evidently felt that they might well influence their men to vote for Jackson.