The annexation of Texas, which Jackson strongly favored, became
an accomplished fact with the approval of a majority of the people.
The moderated protective tariff to which Jackson inclined was kept up
until the Civil War. The removal of the Indians to reservations beyond
the Mississippi fell in with the views of the public upon that subject
and inaugurated an Indian policy which was closely adhered to for more
than half a century. In his vindication of executive independence
Jackson broke new ground, crudely enough it is true; yet, whatever the
merits of his ideas at the moment, they reshaped men's conception of
the presidency and helped make that office the power that it is today.
The strong stand taken against nullification clarified popular opinion
upon the nature of the Union and lent new and powerful support to
national vigor and dignity.
Over against these achievements must be placed the introduction of the
Spoils System, which debauched the Civil Service and did the country
lasting harm; yet Jackson only responded to public opinion which held
"rotation in office to be the cardinal principle of democracy.
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