Final answer:
The expansion of participatory democracy from 1800 to 1848 was driven by the market revolution, the rise of the second party system, and electoral reforms that removed property qualifications for voting and increased direct voter influence in presidential elections. This period saw increased political participation among white male citizens, though it still excluded women, free Black people, and Native Americans from the political process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes of Participatory Democracy Expansion
Between 1800 and 1848, the expansion of participatory democracy in the United States can be attributed to several significant factors. First, the market revolution created a need for government policies that supported economic growth, which led to increased political activation among American men. The link between property ownership and voting rights was largely dissolved by most states between 1816 and 1828, resulting in a dramatic increase in the number of white male voters. Additionally, the advent of the second party system, including Democrats and the Whigs, allowed for a more organized way of championing citizens' political voice and mobilizing voters around central issues. The presidential election of 1840 showcased the surge in voter participation, highlighted by large-scale rallies and the use of emotional propaganda. Finally, in the 1820s, as states removed property qualifications for voting and moved towards electing Electoral College representatives by popular vote, the electorate expanded, contributing to a wider belief in having a greater say in government.
Despite these democratic strides, it's important to note that the expansion of political power was limited to White men, while women, free Black people, and Native Americans were largely disenfranchised.