Andrew Jackson: Hero or Villain? U.S. and Virginia History

Entering Public Service Jackson became the first person from Tennessee to serve in the House of Representatives before becoming President in 1828. As a young general in the army, President James Monroe sent Jackson to protect the border of Florida against the Seminole and Creek Indians.

Jackson also gained fame for his military achievements during the War of 1812 leading American forces to victory over the British in the Battle of New Orleans.

Jacksonian Democracy Jackson was extremely popular with the “common man”, which he considered to be farmers, factory workers and western frontiersmen. Jackson’s belief in shifting the political power from the wealthy and educated elite to the “common man” was part of what became known as Jacksonian democracy. However, Jackson’s critics viewed his popularity as a danger sign that his presidency was coming to resemble that of a king.

As a result, Jackson earned yet another nickname As a result, Jackson earned yet another nickname. His opponents called him “King Andrew”, fearing Jackson’s intentions of strengthening the powers of the presidency.

Upon assuming the Presidency, Jackson fired over 200 government workers and replaced them with his own Democratic supporters. A supporter of Jackson’s replied to criticism of the president by stating, “To the victor belong the spoils.” Spoils system – practice of rewarding supporters with government jobs

The Bank War Jackson believed that the Bank of the United States had too much power and served the needs of the rich over those of average Americans. For example, the Bank of the United States had the ability to limit the amount of money state banks were allowed to lend to small business owners such as farmers and merchants. Jackson vetoed refunding the Bank of the U.S., causing it to close in 1836