American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House

American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House is a Pulitzer Prize–winning biography of President Andrew Jackson written in 2008 by historian Jon Meacham. The book focuses on Jackson’s transformative and often controversial time in the White House, exploring themes of democracy, the Expansion of Executive Power, leadership, and the interaction of the personal and public, including the Impact of Personal Character on Public Duty and the Intersection of Private Lives and Public Roles. Meacham presents a complex portrait of Andrew Jackson, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of his presidency and the lasting impact of his leadership on the nation.

This guide uses the 2008 Random House print edition.

Content Warning: The book includes historical descriptions and language that reflect the attitudes and perspectives of the early 19th century, including discussions of slavery, Indigenous American displacement and genocide, and political violence.

Summary

American Lion opens with a detailed account of Andrew Jackson’s early life, providing background on the experiences that shaped his character and political philosophy. Born into poverty on the frontier, Jackson faced numerous personal hardships, including the loss of his family during the American Revolution. These formative experiences imbued him with a fierce independence and a sense of resilience.