Final answer:
Jackson's presidency promoted democracy by expanding suffrage and representation among the common people, yet his policies also sparked debates on federal power and minority rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Andrew Jackson's approach to governing was seen as promoting democracy through his support for expanding suffrage and his appeal to the "common man." His inauguration symbolized this approach, as it was attended not just by the political elite, but by ordinary people as well, reflecting the turbulent nature of majority rule. Jackson espoused a democratic vision grounded in a belief in the power of the majority, advocating for states' rights and governance in accordance with the will of the people, particularly favoring the interests of farmers and laborers over those of the business community.
However, Jackson's approach to democracy had its critics. His position on issues like the Nullification Crisis, the Bank War, and especially the Indian Removal Act, displayed tendencies towards authoritarianism and a lack of consideration for minority rights. The implementation of the federal patronage system, also known as the spoils system, was another controversial aspect of his presidency, with supporters being rewarded with government positions.
Overall, while Jackson's policies championed majoritarian desires and broadened political participation among white males, his actions also contributed to public policy debates on federal power, economic regulation, and the treatment of minority groups in the 1830s, embodying both the triumphs and challenges of American democracy in that era.