This slim volume by renowned historian Sean Wilentz will likely become THE quick one-volume reference on the life of Andrew Jackson. This issue is part of Arthur Schlesinger's series on American Presidents.
Wilentz presents a carefully nuanced portrait of Jackson, which one has to do given the enormity of the life and influence of our 7th President. It is possible to applaud Jackson's accomplishments---the first common President, the first President to champion the cause of the people (albeit propertyless white men, which was the people in his time), fighting for the people against what he called "the money power." But then we must recognize his racism, typical of his time, and his horrific Indian Removal policy, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of Native Americans.
Jackson bested Calhoun in the nullification controversey and thereby saved the Union for the time being. Lincoln found inspiration in Jackson's patriotism.
Jackson enhanced the power of the Presidency. It was under Jackson that the executive branch became the dominant branch of government.
Historians can take sides in the issue of Jackson vs J Q Adams. Both were great Americans, and I think we can appreciate both without taking sides.
I continue my Andrew Jackson reading and hope to have more to say later.
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