Final answer:
Andrew Jackson's presidency was significantly shaped by political beliefs and events, particularly through the implementation of the Spoils System, where party loyalists were appointed to government positions. This practice resulted in increased executive power but also corruption, and it contributed to the solidification of the Democratic Party and the rise of the Whig party opposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Political beliefs and events significantly shaped Andrew Jackson's presidency, particularly through the implementation of the Spoils System. The Spoils System led to the practice of political patronage where Andrew Jackson and subsequent presidents rewarded party loyalists with governmental positions. This was intended to ensure that federal posts were occupied by those in support of the president's policies, hence enhancing party loyalty and political power. During Jackson's presidency, patronage was markedly evident when he dismissed numerous federal employees, most notably within the U.S. Postal Service, to replace them with his supporters.
While the Spoils System initially helped to make government responsive to the electorate, it also resulted in corruption and inefficiency. The appointment of government positions based on political loyalty instead of merit sparked controversy and criticism, eventually leading to calls for civil service reform. Jackson was also known for asserting the power of the executive branch, using presidential powers to promote his vision, which included controversial policies like Indian removal, the Nullification Crisis, and dismantling the Second Bank of the United States.
The widespread political patronage and Jackson's strong-handed leadership style did not necessarily cause a decline in public support for Jackson during his time. Instead, they led to the expansion of executive power and the solidification of the Democratic Party, though Jackson's use of patronage was also a factor that drew opposition and contributed to the rise of the Whig party.