Things You'll Need:
- Internet
- Books about the presidents
- Books about American history
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Step 1
Search government and history websites and books to learn about the best-known aspect of Andrew Jackson--his status as a "Champion of the Common Man." Also study the conflict between Jackson and former supporter Davy Crockett over Jackson's mistreatment of Native Americans.
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Step 2
Study his biographies to learn how he served in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Explore his duel with Charles Dickinson resulting in Dickinson's death. Understand why he consulted with a "Kitchen Cabinet" instead of his official cabinet.
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Step 3
Look for information on his introduction of the spoils system, which was the practice of giving government jobs to political supporters. Also look at his controversial act of depositing federal funds in banks directed by Democrat bankers instead of the Bank of the United States.
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Step 4
Study important legislation passed during Jackson's presidency such as his blocking of the re-charter of Second National Bank and The Indian Removal Act, which led to the Trail of Tears.
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Step 5
Examine other significant events in Jackson's presidency such as Peggy O'Neal's affair with John Eaton, the secretary of war. Learn about the attempted assassination of Jackson. Also worthy of study is the Nullification Crisis when South Carolina refused to collect an import tax.
