Final answer:
John Adams's support came from more elite groups due to his political actions and stance as president, his focus on federal intervention for economic growth, and the perception of an elitist and less populist approach compared to Andrew Jackson.
Step-by-step explanation:
It seems natural that John Adams's support came from certain demographics and regions due to his political stance and actions during his presidency. As a candidate, he failed to engage the broader voting populace and remained disconnected from the common man's interests, which alienated many potential supporters.
Adams's approach focused on federal patronage and promoting economic growth through federal intervention, aligning with the interests of politicians like Henry Clay and Daniel Webster, who supported his vision. However, his supporters were ineffective in countering widespread concerns about Adams being an elitist, especially against Andrew Jackson's appeal as a hero of the common man.
During Adams's tenure and campaigning period, several decisions and circumstances, such as his moderate course, the Alien and Sedition Acts, and the perception of a corrupt bargain with Henry Clay, undermined his popularity.
Additionally, his willingness to negotiate political differences and his association with the Federalist agenda of economic growth through federal mechanisms further positioned Adams's support base among the more elite and business-oriented electorate, rather than the expanding democratized voting public that favored Jackson's populist approach.
Despite tactical errors and the inability to mobilize a widespread base, Adams's drawing of support from more elite circles seems a natural result of his policies and the political climate of the time, reflective of a pivotal moment in the evolution of American politics where party support and voter engagement became essential to electoral success.