Andrew Jackson was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837. During his presidency, he sought to act as the direct representative of the common man and was elected by popular vote. He was a military hero who became a national hero when he defeated the British at New Orleans during the War of 1812. Some of his key accomplishments as President include:

• Strengthening the power of the presidency: Jackson firmly established that presidents could be more than just mere executives enforcing laws. He set the precedent of the president as the sole representative of “the people” and, as such, could wield power broadly to carry out their will.

• Defending the Union: Jackson issued a proclamation in 1832 disavowing the doctrine of nullification and declared that the Constitution created a single government for all Americans and that secession was illegal.

• Gaining new respect for the United States in foreign affairs: Jackson strengthened relationships with foreign nations globally and issued a new currency.

• Pushing the country toward democracy: Jackson laid the framework for democracy, paid off the national debt, and gained new lands for America.

• Changing the game: Jackson made executive decisions based on his personal beliefs and did what he could to protect the common man. He left a legacy resulting from his unorthodox, action-first mentality.

Jackson also replaced about 10% of offices which he held power over, which was a high percentage in comparison to previous presidents. He set up a “principle of rotation” by removing those whom he saw as corrupt or generally inept.