Final answer:
Andrew Jackson's inauguration in 1829 was marked by a massive celebration at the White House, where thousands of supporters caused significant damage, including breaking valuable china. This event was emblematic of the populist enthusiasm and political change that Jackson's presidency represented.
Step-by-step explanation:
The president who threw a huge party after his election in 1829 that resulted in the breakage of thousands of dollars' worth of china was Andrew Jackson. In honor of Jackson's ascendance to the presidency, supporters followed him to Washington, D.C., and after he took the oath of office, a reception was held at the White House.
The celebration saw as many as 20,000 people lining Pennsylvania Avenue and overwhelming the staff at the White House. The revelry was so intense that staff had to move refreshments to the lawn to restore order.
This event was seen by Jackson's supporters as a reaffirmation of his image as a man of the people, while his opponents viewed it as an ominous sign of disorder and chaos to come during Jackson's presidency.
During this boisterous celebration, Jackson's supporters considered the mayhem at the White House to be a symbol of the new democratic era characterized by the rule of the majority. The reception apparently turned rowdy, leading to destruction of White House property, including the expensive china.
The incident vividly highlighted the populist fervor surrounding Jackson's inauguration and the beginning of a significant political shift in America.