Essay on The Evolution of the Power of the Presidency

The Evolution of the Power of the Presidency The views of the presidency by the first sixteen presidents varied widely but all of their actions set precedents for their successors to use, expand, or even curtail the power of the office. Some believed in the Whig theory of strict adherence to the constitution, while others believed the president was the steward of the people with a loose interpretation of it. The power of the office expanded through the years, however it only expanded as far as the public and congress allowed. George Washington was the first President of the United States of America and realizing this he acted carefully and deliberately, aware of the need to build an executive structure that could accommodate future†¦show more content†¦President Jefferson was the first to pass out the rewards of the spoils system. In his second term he became the first President to use economic sanctions against a foreign power, with the embargo act of 1807, in order to achieve a goal. With the exception of the Louisiana Purchase, Jeffersons administration was a negative presidency in that it rolled back federal policies. His economic policies enabled future presidents to use the foreign treaty powers as a weapon in diplomatic negotiations with other countries without interference from congress. In the election that ended the Era of good feelings(1824) John Q. Adams won the presidency. While he was not a very powerful president himself, he is responsible for the beginning of the legislative role of the presidency. He believed the role of the president was to be a steward of the people and favored a loose interpretation of the constitution. He advocated internal improvements such as better roads, canals, schools, and a better army and navy. The action of Adams in an attempt to get the federal government to finance those projects is the basis that is used to legitimize federal funding even today. Andrew Jackson is arguably one of the most influential presidents in history. He believed that government had a social obligation to the people and that it was the most democratic branch. He was the first president to create a grassroots politicalShow MoreRelatedPresidency as an Institution1265 Words   |  6 PagesThe Presidency as an institution Both the administration of Carter and Reagan were shaped by the Cold War in the aftermath of Watergate. Watergate created cynicism of the government, which in turn made governing difficult both intentionally as well as improvisational because the institution of the President was seen as acting in the best interest of itself. President Jimmy Carter and President Ronald Reagan both had their difficulties as President. 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