1832

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The biggest issue of the 1832 election was the re-chartering of the United States Bank, that "many-headed monster." (12A-1066505) Although its charter did not expire until 1836, Clay felt that to push the question into the open before the election would not only split Jackson's followers, but also force Jackson to allow the bill to pass rather than endanger his chances with the Eastern voters who favored the bank, by vetoing the bill. Jackson did veto the bill, but the people's confidence in him remained unshaken despite the opposition of business interests and the press.

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Many cartoons reflected this issue. Here Jackson, carrying a "veto stick," rides a horse that is about to stumble on the United States Bank while Clay rides ahead--a false prophecy, as it turns out (12B-1066506). Here, Jackson, William Wirt, John C. Calhoun, and Henry Clay play a game of poker; Calhoun's hand is the United States Bank, while Jackson's is "Intrigue, Corruption and Imbecility." (12C-1066507) Jackson is also portrayed as a monarchist, trampling the United States Constitution and plans for internal improvements (12D-1066508).

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A very interesting cartoon was published at this time. It is the first to depict Uncle Sam, here, "In Danger," being bled by quack doctors: Jackson, Amos Kendall, the Secretary of the Treasury, and Martin Van Buren (12E-1066509). This is another reference to Jackson's attempt to kill the United States Bank.

Here is another of David Claypoole Johnston's cartoons, simple in design and to the point (12F-1066510). Clay's sewing job didn't hold up for long; Jackson was re-elected.