Which political tradition characterized the candidates’ reluctance to personally campaign?

The correct answer highlights the political tradition where candidates were often hesitant to engage in personal campaigning due to societal norms and expectations of decorum. During periods of less intense party competition, particularly in the early 19th century, there was a prevailing belief that candidates should not seek office assertively or present themselves in a manner perceived as self-promoting. Instead, the norm was for candidates to wait for voters to come to them, reflecting a more reserved approach that emphasized the integrity of public service over personal ambition.

This reluctance was shaped by the context of the political culture at the time, where personal campaigning might have been viewed as undignified. In contrast to aggressive campaign strategies, which focus on actively seeking votes through rallies and direct interactions with voters, the absence of competitive party dynamics made candidates more reticent to take a hands-on approach in their political pursuits. Such traditions reflected the evolving relationship between the electorate and those seeking office, indicating a significant shift in American political practices over time.