Interesting Facts About Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson was the seventh president of the United States. He was a military leader, lawyer, and politician who served from 1829 to 1837. He was a polarizing figure, but his legacy remains strong. He was known for his strong opinions and his willingness to stand up for what he believed in. Here are some interesting facts about Andrew Jackson.

Early Life

Andrew Jackson was born on March 15, 1767 in the Waxhaws region, which is now the border between North and South Carolina. He was the third of five sons and the oldest to survive to adulthood. His father died before he was born, and his mother raised him and his brothers. He received a basic education, but had to leave school at age 13 to help support his family.

Military Career

At the age of 14, Jackson joined the local militia and participated in battles during the Revolutionary War. He was captured by the British at age 16 and was held as a prisoner of war. After his release, he joined the Tennessee militia and rose to the rank of Major General. He gained fame for his military victories in the War of 1812 and the First Seminole War.

Political Career

Jackson first became involved in politics in 1796 when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. He served two terms in Congress and then became a Senator in 1797. In 1822, he was elected as the seventh president of the United States. As president, he fought for the rights of the common people and was an advocate for states’ rights.

Interesting Facts

1. Andrew Jackson was the first president to be born in a log cabin.
2. He was the first president to be attacked by an assassin.
3. He was the first president to be impeached, although he was ultimately acquitted.
4. He was an avid horseman and owned several horses.
5. He was the first president to ride a train.
6. He was the first president to be photographed.
7. He was the first president to have a pet in the White House.
8. He was the first president to be the target of a formal protest.
9. He was the first president to be challenged to a duel.
10. He was the first president to have his portrait painted.
11. He was the first president to shake hands with a commoner.
12. He was the first president to be nicknamed “Old Hickory.”
13. He was the first president to appoint a Jewish person to a federal position.
14. He was the first president to be elected by popular vote.
15. He was the first president to have his inauguration broadcast by radio.
16. He was the first president to be featured on a U.S. postage stamp.
17. He was the first president to have his inaugural address printed in a newspaper.
18. He was the first president to have his inaugural address televised.
19. He was the first president to attend a White House dinner in a tuxedo.
20. He was the first president to be a Freemason.
21. He was the first president to receive a standing ovation after his inaugural address.
22. He was the first president to have a State of the Union address.
23. He was the first president to have his portrait appear on a U.S. currency note.
24. He was the first president to own a steamboat.
25. He was the first president to have his portrait appear on a postage stamp.
26. He was the first president to be featured on a commemorative coin.
27. He was the first president to have his likeness appear on a U.S. coin.
28. He was the first president to have a national monument dedicated to him.
29. He was the first president to have a monument erected in his honor in Washington D.C.
30. He was the first president to have a monument erected in his honor in his home state of Tennessee.

Conclusion

Andrew Jackson was a complex figure and a controversial president, but his legacy and influence are still felt today. His willingness to stand up for what he believed in and his commitment to the common people have made him an enduring figure in American history. These 30 interesting facts about Andrew Jackson demonstrate the breadth and depth of his impact on American history.