The Democratic Party

Founded in 1828, the Democratic Party is the oldest active political party in the United States and one of the oldest political parties in the world.

Origins and Early Years (1828-1860)

The Democratic Party emerged from the Jeffersonian Democratic-Republican Party, formally organizing during Andrew Jackson's presidential campaign. The party initially championed:

  • States' rights and limited federal government
  • Agrarian and frontier interests
  • Opposition to the national bank
  • Popular democracy (for white men)

Civil War and Reconstruction Era (1860-1896)

The party split over slavery leading to the Civil War. During this period:

  • Northern Democrats opposed the Civil War
  • Southern Democrats supported the Confederacy
  • Post-war party opposed Reconstruction policies
  • Supported white supremacy in the South

Progressive Era (1896-1932)

Under William Jennings Bryan and Woodrow Wilson, the party embraced progressivism:

  • Anti-trust legislation
  • Labor rights and unions
  • Women's suffrage
  • Federal Reserve System
  • Income tax

New Deal Coalition (1932-1968)

Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal transformed the party:

  • Social Security and welfare programs
  • Strong labor unions
  • Urban political machines
  • Civil rights legislation (later)

Modern Era (1968-Present)

The party has evolved to champion:

  • Civil rights and social justice
  • Environmental protection
  • Universal healthcare
  • Progressive taxation
  • LGBTQ+ rights
  • Immigration reform

Key Historical Figures

Andrew Jackson

Party founder and 7th President. Championed populist democracy and states' rights.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

32nd President. Created the New Deal and modern liberalism.

Lyndon B. Johnson

36th President. Passed Civil Rights Act and created Great Society programs.

Barack Obama

44th President. First African American president, passed healthcare reform.

Major Platform Shifts

1860s: Civil War Split

Party divided over slavery and states' rights

1896: Progressive Turn

Embraced economic populism and regulation

1932: New Deal Coalition

Shifted to support strong federal government and labor

1964: Civil Rights

Embraced civil rights, lost Southern white support

1992: New Democrats

Moved toward center on economic issues

Current State

Today's Democratic Party is a center-left coalition supporting progressive social policies, environmental protection, and regulated capitalism with strong social safety nets. The party draws support from urban areas, minorities, young voters, and educated professionals.