Would Andrew Jackson Have Supported the Confederates During the US Civil War?
Andrew Jackson, known for his staunch support of the Union, famously made the toast "The Union now and forever" during his tenure as President. This sentiment was a response to South Carolina's early threat to secede.
Given Jackson's historical stance and actions, it is highly unlikely that he would have supported the Confederates during the Civil War. During his presidency, he confronted South Carolina's nullification of federal laws, including the controversial Tariff of Abominations. Jackson was known for his strong resolve in protecting the Union.
Jackson's Stance on Nullification and the Tariff of Abominations
In 1828, before Jackson's election, a new tariff law, the Tariff of Abominations, raised tariffs as high as 50% on European goods, disproportionately affecting the Southern economy. Southern farmers and traders who relied on foreign imports felt this tariff heavily, perceiving it as a heavy burden.
John C. Calhoun, then serving as Vice President, argued in an unsigned essay that a single state could overrule the federal government. In April 1830, during a Jefferson Day dinner, Jackson made the toast: "Our federal Union: It must be preserved." His commitment to the Union was unwavering.
This toast became etched in history; when Union troops captured New Orleans, General Butler had the original toast inscribed at the base of a statue commemorating the event. Jackson's pledge to preserve the Union was not empty rhetoric.
Historical Context and Threats of Force
When South Carolina attempted to nullify the import tariffs, Jackson was prepared to take military action. His famous phrase, "I would rather be right than president," underscored his willingness to defy public opinion for what he believed was just. Jackson's actions were backed by concrete potential for enforcement.
The President threatened to send troops to quell any attempted secession by South Carolina. This firm stance was not a mere threat; Jackson had a long history of dealing with secessionist movements and was determined to maintain the integrity of the Union.
Personal Background and Beliefs
While Jackson's support of the Union might seem at odds with his family history, there is no evidence that he was directly influenced by his heritage. The family rumor about his living with a 2nd generation mixed heritage Scottish-Native American family as a youth did not align with his public stance. His views on privilege and the U.S. Bank were more characterized by his overall political ideology.
It is widely believed that Jackson was a fervent supporter of the Union and would have used any means possible to maintain it. The preservation of the Union was a central tenet of his political beliefs and actions.
Given the evidence, it is safe to conclude that, if Jackson was still alive during the Civil War, he would have been a strong advocate for the preservation of the Union and not for the Confederacy.