Final answer:
The Whigs and Democrats differed mainly in their stances on federal government involvement in the economy; Democrats favored states' rights, while Whigs supported federal actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between the Whigs and Democrats during the late 1820s and 1830s was related to their views on the role of the federal government and economic policies. The Democrats favored a smaller role for the national government, advocating for states' rights and individual freedom, and attracting support from small farmers, urban workers, and artisans. On the other hand, the Whigs supported a more active federal government, promoting policies like tariffs, a national bank, and internal improvements, and they were backed by wealthier merchants, large southern planters, and business owners.