Final answer:
Andrew Jackson won the 1828 presidency in a landslide because he appealed to the common people by portraying himself as a champion of the ordinary citizen, fighting against elitism and political corruption. His stance on issues like the Second Bank of the United States also garnered widespread support, marking a transition to more democracy-focused American politics and the rise of the Democratic Party. The correct option is c) "Jackson's support from the common people increased his popularity."
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best explains why Jackson won the 1828 presidency in a landslide is c) "Jackson's support from the common people increased his popularity."
Andrew Jackson's victory was largely due to his appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, including urban workers, small northern farmers, southern yeomen, and southern planters.
This coalition was formed because Jackson was perceived as a champion of the common man and stood against the perceived elitism of the existing political establishment.
He campaigned on the platform of fighting against a small number of eastern elites historically involved in politics, and his populist stance resonated with many who felt disenfranchised by the political system.
Jackson also exploited the public's dissatisfaction with the so-called "corrupt bargain" of 1824, positioning himself as an outsider fighting against the cronyism of Washington politics.
His ability to rally the popular will and his attacks on the Second Bank of the United States further solidified his image as a fighter for the average American against special interests.
The 1828 presidential election signified the rise of democratic values and the birth of the Democratic Party, marking a significant shift from elite-driven politics to a more inclusive, party-based political system. The correct option is c) "Jackson's support from the common people increased his popularity."