Reference no: EM133259050

Andrew Jackson (1767 - 1845) was our 7th US President. "Old Hickory," was unlike any political leader we have had up to this point in US history.

The quintessential self-made man, Andrew Jackson, the son of poor Irish immigrants, rose from his humble background to become a national military icon and the 7th President of the United States. During his terms as president, Jackson confronted some of the defining issues facing a nascent nation still searching for its identity. By moving beyond the politics and ideologies set in place by the Founding Fathers, Andrew Jackson became one of the most striking, polarizing, and influential figures in American history (qtd from pbs.org).

Section A: Professor's Lecture

Have you ever considered the impact the Trail of Tears may have had on Modern-Day Native Americans? Were you aware that many who live on Indian Reservations today struggle with poverty, alcoholism, and lack of job opportunities? What was your reaction to some of the Native American art? How are they trying to process generational trauma? How does the concept of "Manifest Destiny" play a part in their lives?

Section B: Howard Zinn Textbook

Jackson was a land speculator, merchant, slave trader, and the most aggressive enemy of the Indians in early American history (Zinn, 98).

Imagine you are 100% Native American living in the time Andrew Jackson was President. How would you view him and his policies? How did President Jackson's Indian policy compare (in practice, rationale, and effect) to his predecessors? (Please include at least three quotes from the Zinn chapter to support your argument).

Section C: American Yawp and Documentary

Option 1. Explain your understanding of the Nullification Crisis, the Bank War, and the Rise of the Whig party. (Look at the American Yawpchapter.) How are these events a reflection of people's reaction to Jackson's presidency? Are the various nicknames given to Jackson justified? Explain.

Option 2. Discuss your reaction to the "Trail of Tears" documentary. Please share 2-3 specific examples from the documentary that grabbed your attention or something new you learned.