In this essay, consider Andrew Jackson's popular appeal as a president for the common man, one who took politics away from the rich elite, and balance that against the man who threatened South Carolina with military force, caused the Panic of 1837 by destroying the Second Bank of the United States, defied the Supreme Court, and sent thousands to their deaths by ordering the Trail of Tears debacle. This is the man we honor by picturing him on the $20 bill (at least until Harriet Tubman replaces him). Who was this Jackson fellow, and what is his rightful place in our history?
a) A champion of the common people
b) A controversial figure in American history
c) Both a and b
d) None of the above