Andrew Jackson was born on March 15, 1767, in the Waxhaws region between North Carolina and South Carolina. His father died before he was born, and his mother raised him in poverty. Jackson received little formal education and later became a lawyer.
He gained national fame through his role in the War of 1812, particularly for his victory at the Battle of New Orleans. This victory propelled him to national prominence and earned him the nickname "Old Hickory."
As president, Jackson implemented policies that reflected his belief in the strength of the executive branch. He was a proponent of states' rights and opposed the national bank, ultimately vetoing its recharter. His presidency was marked by the forced removal of Native American tribes, known as the Trail of Tears, which resulted in the displacement and deaths of thousands of Native Americans.
Jackson's legacy is complex. He is celebrated for his leadership during the War of 1812 and his advocacy for the common man, but he is also criticized for his treatment of Native Americans and his expansion of executive power.