The First Populist: The Defiant Life of Andrew Jackson

Brown (The Last American Aristocrat) presents an extensive and exhaustive survey of a pivotal U.S. president from the birth of his ancestors to his mortal demise. The author cites and recounts themes of previous biographers—Robert V. Remini, Sean Wilentz, H. W. Brands, and Mark Cheathem—such as the origins of a strong executive; the rhetoric of democracy; and his intransigence regarding Native American removal and slavery (he was in favor of both) and a national bank (against it). Jackson is a contradictory, divisive, figure whose echoes continue in the 21st century. Among these are: distrust of experts—preferring the unofficial advice of his so-called kitchen cabinet; performative resentment of the elites while enjoying their comforts; and chagrin over a presumed “corrupt bargain” conspiracy that on one occasion denied him the highest office. Even seasoned historians might be surprised to learn about Burr and Jackson’s frontier connection; that Jackson was the oldest president sworn in at the time; and that he appreciably altered the Supreme Court with his six appointments, which only Washington and Franklin D. Roosevelt exceeded.