Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, served from March 4, 1829, to March 4, 1837. His presidency marked a significant shift towards a more populist form of democracy, characterized by strong executive power and controversial policies. This detailed timeline explores the key events and decisions that defined Jackson’s presidency.

First Term (1829-1833)

March 4, 1829: Inauguration

• Andrew Jackson is inaugurated as the seventh President of the United States. His inauguration symbolizes the rise of the “common man” and a shift towards a more direct and personal style of political leadership. Jackson’s inauguration party at the White House is famously chaotic, with large crowds celebrating his victory.

1829: Spoils System

• Jackson implements the “spoils system,” replacing many federal officeholders with his supporters. This practice, based on the principle of “to the victor belong the spoils,” becomes a hallmark of Jacksonian democracy, emphasizing loyalty and party allegiance.

May 28, 1830: Indian Removal Act

• Jackson signs the Indian Removal Act, authorizing the forced relocation of Native American tribes living east of the Mississippi River to lands west of the river. This leads to the infamous Trail of Tears, where thousands of Native Americans suffer and die during the forced migrations.

1830: Maysville Road Veto

• Jackson vetoes the Maysville Road Bill, which would have funded the construction of a road in Kentucky. He argues that federal funding for local infrastructure projects is unconstitutional, setting a precedent for limited federal involvement in state affairs.

December 1830: Nullification Crisis Begins

• The Nullification Crisis begins when South Carolina declares that it has the right to nullify federal tariffs that it deems unconstitutional. This sets the stage for a major conflict between state and federal authority.

1831: Peggy Eaton Affair

• The Peggy Eaton Affair, involving the social ostracism of Jackson’s Secretary of War John Eaton’s wife, Peggy, leads to significant cabinet turmoil. Jackson defends Peggy Eaton, leading to the resignation of several cabinet members and highlighting the influence of personal loyalty in Jackson’s administration.

1831: Bank War Begins

• Jackson begins his attack on the Second Bank of the United States, viewing it as a monopoly that favors the wealthy. This sets off the “Bank War,” a central issue of his presidency, with Jackson vowing to dismantle the institution.

Second Term (1833-1837)

March 4, 1833: Second Inauguration

• Jackson is inaugurated for his second term. His second inaugural address reiterates his commitment to democracy, states’ rights, and his stance against the national bank.

1833: Force Bill and Compromise Tariff

• To address the Nullification Crisis, Jackson signs the Force Bill, authorizing the use of military force to enforce federal laws in South Carolina. Simultaneously, a compromise tariff is passed, gradually reducing the tariffs and easing tensions.

1833: Removal of Bank Deposits

• Jackson orders the removal of federal deposits from the Second Bank of the United States and places them in various state banks, known as “pet banks.” This action escalates the Bank War and leads to significant economic instability.

1835: National Debt Paid Off

• Under Jackson’s administration, the United States pays off its national debt for the first and only time in its history. This achievement is short-lived, as economic policies soon lead to financial turmoil.

1835: Texas Revolution

• The Texas Revolution begins, with American settlers in Texas rebelling against Mexican rule. Jackson, though sympathetic to the Texan cause, refrains from officially recognizing Texas independence to avoid conflict with Mexico.

1835-1836: Indian Removal Continues

• The forced relocation of Native American tribes continues, with the Cherokee being among the most affected. The Trail of Tears results in the death of thousands of Native Americans due to harsh conditions and disease.

1836: Specie Circular

• Jackson issues the Specie Circular, an executive order requiring payment for government land to be in gold and silver (specie) rather than paper currency. This policy aims to curb land speculation but contributes to the Panic of 1837.

1836: Election of Martin Van Buren

• Jackson’s vice president, Martin Van Buren, wins the presidential election of 1836, largely due to Jackson’s popularity and support. This ensures the continuation of Jacksonian policies.

Conclusion of Jackson’s Presidency (1837)

March 4, 1837: Departure from Office

• Andrew Jackson leaves office, returning to his plantation, the Hermitage, in Tennessee. His presidency has profoundly shaped the Democratic Party and American politics, but it has also left a legacy of controversy, particularly regarding his treatment of Native Americans and his opposition to the national bank.

Legacy and Impact

Andrew Jackson’s presidency is often seen as a transformative period in American history. His strong use of presidential power and his appeal to the common man fundamentally changed the nature of the American political system. Key aspects of his legacy include:

1. Jacksonian Democracy: Jackson’s presidency is synonymous with the rise of Jacksonian Democracy, which emphasized greater political participation by the common man, expanded suffrage, and a distrust of elite institutions.

2. Indian Removal: The Indian Removal Act and the subsequent Trail of Tears are among the most tragic and controversial aspects of Jackson’s presidency. These policies resulted in the forced displacement and death of thousands of Native Americans and left a lasting scar on American history.

3. The Bank War: Jackson’s battle with the Second Bank of the United States reshaped the American financial system. His victory in dismantling the bank led to a period of economic instability and contributed to the Panic of 1837.

4. States’ Rights and Federal Authority: Jackson’s handling of the Nullification Crisis reinforced the supremacy of federal laws over state laws, setting an important precedent for the future.

5. Strong Executive Power: Jackson’s assertive use of presidential veto power and his direct involvement in policy decisions strengthened the role of the presidency and set a precedent for future presidents.

6. Economic Policies: Jackson’s economic policies, including the Specie Circular and his opposition to the national bank, had significant short-term and long-term impacts on the American economy, contributing to financial crises and shaping economic debates for decades.

In conclusion, Andrew Jackson’s presidency was a period of significant change and controversy. His leadership style, policies, and vision for America left a profound and lasting impact on the nation, making him one of the most influential and debated figures in American history.