Hey, I need a little bit of help on my DBEQ.

The question is "Reform movements in the United States sought to expand democratic ideals." ASsess the validity of this statement with specific reference to the years 1825-1850."

Im basically freaking out. Im having trouble figuring out what exactly democratic ideals are, does anyone have a definition? Plus, this is my first dbeq thats really going to count, and i want to be successful with it. The documents attached kind of split it half way down the middle of wether i should go pro or against them expanding democratic ideals..i think im going to go pro...but ahh!! im so stuck!!

someone help me pleease :-(