American Lion

Jackson's election in 1828 ushered in a new and lasting era in which the people, not distant elites, were the guiding force in American politics. Democracy made its stand in the Jackson years, and he gave voice to the hopes and fears of a restless, changing nation facing challenging times at home and threats abroad. Drawing on newly discovered family letters and papers, Meacham details the human drama--the family, the women, and the inner circle of advisers--that shaped Jackson's private world through years of storm and victory. With his powerful persona, his palpable bravery, and his mystical connection to the people, Jackson moved the White House from the periphery of government to the center of national attention, articulating a vision of change that challenged entrenched interests to heed the popular will--or face his formidable wrath. The greatest of the presidents who have followed Jackson in the White House--from Lincoln to Theodore Roosevelt to FDR to Truman--have found inspiration in his example, and virtue in his vision.

Jon Meacham is the editor of Newsweek and author of American Lion and the New York Times bestsellers Franklin and Winston: An Intimate Portrait of an Epic Friendship and American Gospel: God, the Founding Fathers, and the Making of a Nation. He lives in New York City with his wife and children.


From the Hardcover edition.