History of the Democratic Party (United States)
Origins and Early History
The Democratic Party traces its origins to the anti-federalist factions around the time of America's independence from British rule. These factions were organized into the Democratic-Republican Party by Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and other influential opponents of the Federalists in 1792. The Democratic-Republican Party splintered in 1824 into the short-lived National Republican Party and the Democratic Party. During the same period, the party adopted its current name, the Democratic Party.
Jacksonian Democracy
Under the leadership of seventh President Andrew Jackson, the party became the nation's dominant political entity. Jackson's tenure was marked by a strong presidency and a belief in the "common man" and populist democracy. This era, known as Jacksonian Democracy, lasted roughly from Jackson's 1828 election until slavery became the dominant issue in 1854 and the Civil War dramatically reshaped American politics.
Civil War and Reconstruction
The Democratic Party was divided during the Civil War and Reconstruction era. The Northern Democrats, led by Stephen A. Douglas, supported popular sovereignty and opposed the expansion of slavery, while the Southern Democrats, led by John C. Breckinridge, supported the institution of slavery and its expansion into the territories.
The New Deal and the Great Society
The Democratic Party underwent a dramatic ideological change in the mid-20th century, becoming more liberal and advocating for social justice, labor rights, and the welfare state. This shift can be traced back to the New Deal policies of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. Later, under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the party passed the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, and the Great Society programs, which included Medicare, Medicaid, and the War on Poverty.
Modern Era
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Democratic Party has been characterized by a move towards progressive and social liberal policies, along with a focus on civil rights, social justice, and economic equality. The party's platform is generally based on American liberalism, contrasting with the conservatism of the Republican Party.