The political system of the United States in the mid-nineteenth century was strongly influenced by the social and economic circumstances of the time. A. The Democratic and Whig Parties developed in response to the needs of competing economic and political constituencies. B. During Andrew Jackson's two terms as President, he served as leader of both the Democratic and Whig Parties. C. The Democratic Party primarily represented the interests of the market, banks, and commerce. D. In contrast to the Democrats, the Whigs favored government aid for education. E. A fundamental difference between Whigs and Democrats involved the importance of the market in society. F. The role of government in the lives of the people was an important political distinction between the two parties