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American Lion

Andrew Jackson in the White House
Jun 07, 2017lukasevansherman rated this title 2.5 out of 5 stars
Like a number of people, I was interested in this book because of Trump's embrace of Andrew Jackson as a model, which drew some criticism. But, then again, so does everything he does. The average citizen probably knows that Jackson was nicknamed "Old Hickory," gained fame in the Battle of New Orleans, and was responsible for Indian removal in the South, which culminated in the brutal and shameful Trail of Tears. He's also on the $20 bill. Jon Meacham's book may not entirely change your opinion of the man, but it will give you a more nuanced understanding of him and his times, which includes colorful figures like John Quincy Adams, John Callhoun, and Daniel Webster. You can admire him for being anti-elitist (Something Trump is as well, despite being an elite.), expanding voting rights, and taking on the banks. Then again, he was bellicose, personally (He fought a number of duels.) and politically, his populism (Again, Trump.) had an ugly side, and, finally, there is the great stain on his presidency (And the nation.) that is the treatment of the Native Americans. You'd think all these contradictions would make for a fascinating read, but, while well-researched, the book is dull and inert. History fails to come alive.