Mackenzi Nichols
American History Long #1

Andrew Jackson: American Ceasar?

Andrew Jackson left a permanent imprint upon American politics and the presidency. Within eight years, he combined the form-less coalition of personal followers who had elected him into the country's most durable and successful political party, whose organization and discipline would serve as a model for all others. At the same time, his controversial conduct in office shocked opponents to organize the Whig party.

Jackson's drive for party organization was spurred by his own difficulties with Congress. Unlike other famously strong Presidents, Jackson defined himself not by enacting a legislative program but by creating one. In eight years, Congress passed only one major law, the Indian Removal Act of 1830, at his command. During this time Jackson vetoed twelve bills, one of these was the first "pocket veto" in American history. The Maysville Road and Bank vetoes stood as enduring statements of his political philosophy.

Jackson strengthened himself against Congress by direct links with the voters. His official messages, though delivered to Congress, spoke in plain and powerful language to the people. Reversing to legislative supremacy, Jackson boldly proclaimed himself as the people's leader, their sole defender against special interests and their preferences in Congress. In other ways, too, Jackson expanded the scope of presidential authority. I think Jackson may have given himself too much credit. He forced out members who would not comply to his commands. In two terms he went through four secretaries of state and five secretaries of the treasury. Holding his official subordinates at arm's length, Jackson implemented his policies through a private group of advisers and publicists known as the "Kitchen Cabinet." His bold, dominating style caused opponents to call him King Andrew.