Meaning: The quote by Ezra Cornell reflects his personal experience and political stance during the 1828 presidential election. In this quote, Cornell expresses his initial interest in Andrew Jackson's candidacy, but ultimately opposed him and voted for John Quincy Adams, citing his preference for a protective tariff. This statement provides insight into Cornell's political views and the factors that influenced his decision-making during a critical period in American history.

Ezra Cornell was a prominent businessman and philanthropist who played a significant role in the development of the telegraph and the founding of Cornell University. Born in 1807, he lived through a period of significant political and economic change in the United States, including the presidency of Andrew Jackson, whose policies and leadership style generated both support and opposition from various quarters.

The 1828 presidential election was a highly contentious and transformative event in American politics. Andrew Jackson, a military hero and populist figure, ran as a candidate representing the Democratic Party, while the incumbent president, John Quincy Adams, sought re-election as the candidate of the National Republican Party. The campaign centered on issues such as economic policy, the role of the federal government, and the expansion of suffrage.

In his statement, Cornell mentions his initial interest in Jackson's candidacy, indicating that he was initially drawn to the ideas or persona associated with Jackson's campaign. However, he ultimately opposed Jackson and voted for Adams. This shift in allegiance suggests that Cornell may have reconsidered his support for Jackson based on evolving political developments or a deeper analysis of the candidates' platforms.

The mention of Cornell's support for a protective tariff sheds light on the specific policy issue that influenced his decision. During this period, the debate over tariffs was a prominent and divisive issue in American politics. A protective tariff is a tax on imported goods designed to protect domestic industries from foreign competition by making imported goods more expensive. Advocates of protective tariffs argued that they were necessary to support American manufacturing and promote economic independence, while opponents viewed them as burdensome to consumers and detrimental to international trade.

Cornell's support for a protective tariff aligns with the interests of many Northern industrialists and manufacturers who sought to protect their businesses from foreign competition. This stance suggests that Cornell's decision-making was influenced by his economic interests and beliefs about the role of government in regulating trade and industry.

Overall, Ezra Cornell's quote provides a glimpse into the complex political landscape of the 1828 presidential election and the factors that shaped his own political preferences. His support for a protective tariff and his ultimate decision to oppose Andrew Jackson offer valuable historical insights into the economic and ideological dynamics of the era. By examining Cornell's statement in the context of the broader historical and political landscape, we can gain a deeper understanding of the competing visions and interests that defined this pivotal moment in American history.