The time between 1828 and 1860 is often termed the Age of Jackson, where the Jacksonian Democrats vied against the Whigs. This was an important time that defined American politics, in which modern political parties were originally molded, shaped, and formed. Elections that occurred between this period provided important aspects in politics. Issues of national importance were debated at elections, such as the issue of slavery and the national bank. In this era, "mudslinging" or demeaning the opposition became a prominent practice in campaigning tactics.

The distinction between political parties began to arise during the Election of 1828. The two candidates were originally John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson. Adams' supporters were called National Republicans, and Jackson's supporters were called Democratic Republicans. The National Republicans, who would eventually transform to the Whigs, had many constituents; Henry Clay was one dominant constituent of the National Republicans, and was diametrically opposed to Andrew...