AGE OF JACKSON Jacksons popularity was based on

AGE OF JACKSON Jackson's popularity was based on the following: n He was best known as an Indian fighter war hero, although when elected president he was a wealthy man of property. n

n Jackson was a symbol of the new age of democracy— the "age of the common man. "

He was both an average and ideal American and was therefore able to draw support from every section and social class. n

Jackson was supported by persons of every political faith–even many former Federalists n Those of the Virginian orthodoxy was against him. Jefferson is supposed to have told Daniel Webster “He is one of the most unfit men I know of for such a place. . . he is a dangerous man. ” n n

n Jackson could be charming, and he was basically honest; there was never any doubt about his courage, either physical or moral.

n He was a charismatic but not intellectual leader; highly intelligent, shrewd and practical. A true westerner at heart, and a slave holder, Jackson resented the North and East. On the other hand, he did not buy into the growing states' rights philosophy that was beginning to grow stronger in that era.

n Jackson had reputation as a hotheaded brawler who never forgave enemies. He was not above using that reputation to make an impression on people. (In a famous incident in the White House, he apparently lost his temper and fumed at some unwelcome guests, who fled in horror. When they had gone, he turned to an aide, grinned and said, "They thought I was mad, didn't they? ")

n The Charles Dickinson duel: they used pistols at 24 feet. Jackson decided to let Dickinson, a dead shot, fire first; Jackson wore loose clothing to disguise his outline. Jackson took a hit in breast, then calmly fired. The pistol was half cocked and didn't go off, but Jackson, in considerable pain from the bullet in his chest, recocked the pistol and fired again, killing his opponent

Dickerson Duel

n When Jackson died, an observer said, "If Andy Jackson decides on heaven, that’s where he’ll go!"

n His presidency was one piece of a long struggle over the nature of government power and authority: at which end of Pennsylvania Avenue does the real power reside: In Congress or the White House? Jackson saw the office of President as a protection against the power usurpers of the House, Senate and Supreme Court.