The formation of the Democratic Party marked a significant shift in American politics, culminating from the ideological divisions that emerged during the presidency of John Quincy Adams. The party's inception stemmed from the desire of supporters of Andrew Jackson, who had a populist base and sought to challenge the established elite. This faction was rooted in agrarian interests notably among Southern and Western farmers, emphasizing the importance of individual rights, states’ rights, and democracy. The 1828 election served as a battleground for the growing divide between Jacksonian democracy and the conservative ideals represented by the National Republicans, led by Adams.

As a political organization, the Democratic Party was committed to expanding voter participation and appealing to the average citizen. It opposed the centralized banking system and favored land policies that would support the American frontier and agrarianism. The Democratic Party established a network of local and state party organizations that would mobilize grassroots support, enabling them to bring people from various regions together under a common banner. The dynamics of this newly formed party led to broader shifts in political alignments throughout the country.

Jackson's ultimate victory in the election solidified the party's foundation, allowing it to become one of the two dominant forces in American politics for decades to come. As the party evolved, it adopted various policies and stances across its history, but its origin marked the beginning of a more inclusive political process aimed at representing the working class against aristocratic interests. The foundation of the Democratic Party laid the groundwork for future electoral strategies and shifts that would define the American political landscape for generations.