Which political party emerged in opposition to Andrew Jackson's policies and supported a more centralized government?

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The Whig Party emerged in the 1830s in direct opposition to Andrew Jackson's policies, particularly his approach to governance and his emphasis on a limited federal government. The Whigs supported a more centralized government and promoted initiatives like a national bank and internal improvements such as roads and canals, which they believed would foster economic growth and stability.

This ideologically positioned them counter to Jackson’s Democratic Party, which championed agrarian interests and favored state rights over federal authority. The Whigs attracted a diverse coalition, including former National Republicans and disaffected Democrats who were concerned about Jackson's perceived executive overreach, particularly his aggressive use of presidential power. Their formation marked a significant shift in American political dynamics during this period, representing those who sought a stronger federal structure to address national issues.

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