Jackson

President Andrew Jackson is known as a great president who went above and beyond the expectations set forth for him by the general public. President Jackson laid claim to all the land east of the Mississippi and made it habitable, yet in doing so he supposedly stretched beyond the limits of his power. Regardless of his actions, he is viewed by some as one of the country's greatest presidents. Although he had personal motives in mind that he believed were for the betterment of the country, he continuously made severe extensions of power that should never have been permitted to occur. Andrew Jackson's personality also contributed to his abusive attitude toward the presidency. This was a very serious issue that was proved true time and time again, especially when it came to the Trail of Tears and the Spoils System; However, Jackson’s presidency was not entirely unsuccessful. Jackson fought against nullification, and represented the middle and lower class. Jackson also fought against the Bank of the United States, which is neither a positive or negative outcome of his presidency.

Andrew Jackson first gained popularity as one of America’s greatest war heroes. Fighting in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, Jackson illustrated his bravery and won over the nation’s appeal before his presidency was even on the horizon. Known as the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, American’s worshipped Jackson for concluding the war of 1812, or so they believed. Although he is known as a war hero, Jackson also is known for disobeying multiple orders during war time. Prior to his presidency, Jackson invaded Florida against orders. He was instructed to capture runaway slaves; however, he conquered the territory and wiped out entire Seminole vi...

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...hed to one of his runaway slaves. Although slavery was an important aspect in Jackson’s time, his heartless point of view towards African Americans is both repulsive and concerning (“Andrew Jackson Pros and Cons”).

When Jackson’s presidency is evaluated as a whole, it becomes apparent that he does not deserve the fame that he possesses. Granted, Jackson was a war hero who fought against nullification and represented the “common man;” however, he also was an immensely racist individual who desired a government that resembled a dictatorship. In conclusion, James Parton summed up Jackson’s presidency best: “Andrew Jackson was a patriot and a traitor. He was the greatest of generals, and wholly ignorant of the art of war. He was the most candid of men, and capable of the profoundest dissimulation. He was a democratic autocrat, an urbane savage, and an atrocious saint.”