The Jacksonian era would mark a turning point in American politics, particularly regarding the power of the presidency. As we move forward in history, Rabbi Rocklin will answer the following questions:

1. Why did the Democratic-Republican party split during Andrew Jackson's presidency?
2. What was the primary goal of the newly formed Whig party?
3. How did the railroad help shift the American economy away from subsistence agriculture to commercial agriculture?

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The beginning of the nineteenth century would continue to test the American experiment. As we explore some of those tests, we'll seek answers to the following questions:

1. In what way did Jefferson break with traditional Federalists in his attitude towards tradition?
2. What was the crux of the disagreement between Jefferson and Chief Justice John Marshall?
3. Why were Federalists discredited in national politics following the Hartford Convention?

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Although she was relatively unknown and unappreciated in her time, Jane Austen has since rightfully taken her place as a beloved author. As we survey her life and works, we'll answer the following questions:

1. What did Sir Walter Scott find so compelling about Austen's writings?
2. Why are Austen's books—and, in particular, their lack of grand adventure—so important to the development of Western literature?
3. What did Austen contribute in her novels to the development of the romantic relationship?

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