Who Is On The 20 Dollar Bill? Exploring The Legacy Of Andrew Jackson

Have you ever wondered who is on the 20 dollar bill and what significance this figure holds in American history? The 20 dollar bill features Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, who has been a subject of both admiration and controversy. In this article, we will delve into Jackson's life, his presidency, and the reasons behind his presence on the currency. Additionally, we will explore the ongoing discussions regarding his legacy and the potential changes to the designs of U.S. currency.

Understanding who is on the 20 dollar bill is not just about identifying a face on a piece of paper; it is about recognizing the implications of that choice and the historical context surrounding it. Andrew Jackson was a pivotal figure in the early 19th century, known for his populist approach and strong leadership style. However, his policies, particularly regarding Native Americans, have sparked extensive debate about his legacy in contemporary society.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Andrew Jackson's life, the reasons he was chosen to appear on the 20 dollar bill, and the discussions about his legacy that continue to this day. By the end, you will have a deeper understanding of who Andrew Jackson is and why he remains a significant figure in American history.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Andrew Jackson
• Early Life and Career
• Presidency of Andrew Jackson
• Legacy and Controversies
• Current Debates on U.S. Currency
• Conclusion
• References

Biography of Andrew Jackson

Early Life and Career

Andrew Jackson was born in the Waxhaws region between North and South Carolina. He was the son of Irish immigrants and experienced a challenging childhood, marked by the loss of his father shortly after his birth. Jackson's early life was characterized by hardship, which shaped his resilient personality.

After the American Revolutionary War, Jackson studied law and began a career in politics. He quickly rose to prominence, serving as a U.S. Congressman and later as a Senator for Tennessee. His military career, particularly his leadership during the Battle of New Orleans in 1815, solidified his reputation as a national hero.

Presidency of Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson was elected as the seventh President of the United States in 1828, marking a significant shift in American politics. His presidency is often characterized by his populist approach, advocating for the "common man" and pushing back against established elites.

Some key aspects of his presidency include:

• Indian Removal Act: One of Jackson's most controversial policies, the Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the forced relocation of thousands of Native Americans, resulting in the tragic Trail of Tears.
• Bank War: Jackson opposed the Second Bank of the United States, viewing it as a corrupt institution that favored the wealthy. He famously vetoed the renewal of its charter, leading to its demise.
• Expansion of Executive Power: Jackson expanded the powers of the presidency, often taking unilateral actions that set precedents for future presidents.

Legacy and Controversies

Andrew Jackson's legacy is complex and polarizing. While he is celebrated for his role in expanding democracy and advocating for the common man, his policies toward Native Americans and his support of slavery have led to significant criticism. Historians continue to debate the merits of his contributions to American society.

Some of the major controversies surrounding Jackson include:

• Native American Displacement: The Indian Removal Act resulted in the suffering and death of thousands of Native Americans, leading many to view Jackson as a villain in this context.
• Slavery: Jackson was a slave owner, and his presidency occurred during a time when the institution of slavery was deeply entrenched in American society.
• Populism vs. Elitism: While Jackson championed the rights of the common man, critics argue that his policies often favored certain groups over others.

Current Debates on U.S. Currency

In recent years, there has been growing discussion about the figures represented on U.S. currency, particularly regarding Andrew Jackson's place on the 20 dollar bill. Many advocates for social justice and equality have called for a reevaluation of his legacy, arguing that it is inappropriate to honor someone with such a contentious history.

Efforts to replace Jackson's image on the 20 dollar bill with that of Harriet Tubman, an abolitionist and a symbol of resilience, have gained momentum. The U.S. Treasury announced plans to redesign the bill, but the implementation has faced delays.

Key points in this debate include:

• Historical Context: Supporters of Jackson argue that he played a crucial role in shaping the nation, while opponents focus on the negative consequences of his policies.
• Representation: The push for Tubman's inclusion highlights the importance of representation and recognition of contributions from marginalized groups in American history.
• Public Sentiment: The ongoing discussion reflects a broader societal shift towards acknowledging the complexities of historical figures and their legacies.

Conclusion

In summary, Andrew Jackson, the figure on the 20 dollar bill, represents both a significant chapter in American history and a source of ongoing debate. His presidency, marked by populism and strong leadership, also brought about policies that had devastating effects on Native Americans and bolstered the institution of slavery.

As discussions continue about the appropriateness of his image on U.S. currency, it is essential to consider the broader implications of honoring historical figures. We invite you to share your thoughts on this topic in the comments below and explore other articles on our site for more insights into American history.

References

• American History: Andrew Jackson, History.com
• Jackson, Andrew (1767-1845). Miller Center, University of Virginia
• The Legacy of Andrew Jackson, National Park Service
• Harriet Tubman to Replace Andrew Jackson on $20 Bill, The New York Times