How could a President sign The Indian Removal Act of 1830 – which forced the Native Americans to move away from their homeland into Indian Territory?

Who was Andrew Jackson?

Early Background Parents were immigrants from Ireland Born in a log cabin in South Carolina on March 17, 1767 Father died shortly before Jackson was born

Teenage Years Known for his quick temper Known to be very strong and determined At age 13, he and his brother joined the Patriots during the American Revolution Both were captured by the British

Jailed at 13! While Jackson was a prisoner, he was ordered to shine a British officer’s boots. When he refused, the officer slashed Jackson across the face and hand with a sword. He had the scars for the rest of his life.

Mom Helped Out In jail, the two contracted smallpox. Their mother arranged for a prisoner exchange and they were released. Robert died, but Andrew survived. Their mother died later from diseases contracted while caring for the soldiers. Andrew was raised by a wealthy uncle.

Young Adult 1787-Now 20, he became a lawyer 1788-He was appointed attorney general for the Tennessee territory and moved to Nashville Made majority of his money from land speculations Held several key government jobs

Influence in the Tennessee Territory He helped to create the state out of the western lands of North Carolina and helped to write the constitution of TN when it became a state TN was admitted into the union and became a state.

Jackson-Dickinson Duel 1806-Jackson became involved in a dispute over a horse. Dickinson challenged Jackson to a duel. Although Dickinson shot first, sending a bullet into Jackson’s chest, Jackson shot next and last - killing Dickinson.

The bullet was never removed This contributed to his health problems later in his life.

Becoming a War Hero

Early 1800s - He was appointed major general of the Tennessee militia February He and 1,500 troops were sent to New Orleans for a British invasion. * The invasion never transpired, so he was ordered back to Nashville (no one received pay).

No action No pay Jackson was furious

Earning the Nickname “Old Hickory” First, he refused to disband. Short on money and supplies, he walked along side of his men the entire 500 miles of wilderness back to Nashville. His courage and determination earned him his nickname from his men.

Called to duty again Over the next few years, Jackson was able to see action. He had several victories over the Indians and the British throughout the south.

A Softer Side of Jackson After a victory over the Creek Indians, a small infant was found on the battle field. Jackson wrote to Rachel, asked her to care for him as their own because it reminded him of his own situation when younger.

The Big Victory Jackson won against the British in the Battle of New Orleans British 2,000+died, only 13 Americans Jackson was an overnight war hero War of 1812 ended and Jackson returned home to the Hermitage

After the War of 1812 He was called upon to negotiate treaties with the Cherokees, Chickasaws, and Choctaw

Andrew Jackson as President Continued to keep the nickname Old Hickory (some gave him a new one of King Andrew 1) Other presidents had wanted to move the Indians but Jackson was successful Jackson signed the Removal Act which eventually forced the Indians to move west to Indian Territory