Their name derives from a fabled Dutchman who wanted to rid his property of rats.  
They hated President Polk's use of patronage to secure Southern control of the Democratic Party, and they therefore left the Democratic National Convention in 1848.  Among their leaders were Silas Wright, Azariah Flagg, and Samuel Tilden.  Their name derives from a fabled Dutchman who wanted to rid his property of rats.  FTP, name this party that nominated Martin Van Buren in 1848, the opponents of the Hunkers in the New York Democratics party.
They hated President Polk's use of patronage to secure Southern control of the Democratic Party, and they therefore left the Democratic National Convention in 1848.  
The Barnburners