President Martin Van Buren

Easton Press Martin Van Buren books

Martin Van Buren: The Romantic Age of American Politics - John Niven - 1986

Martin Van Buren and the American Political System - Donald B. Cole - 1997

 

 

President Martin Van Buren biography

Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States, left an indelible mark on American politics and governance during a crucial period of transition in the nation's history. Born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York, Van Buren rose from humble beginnings to become a prominent figure in the early 19th-century political landscape. Van Buren's political career was marked by shrewdness, pragmatism, and a keen understanding of the intricacies of government. As a member of the Democratic-Republican Party and later the Democratic Party, he served in various roles, including as a U.S. Senator, Governor of New York, Secretary of State under President Andrew Jackson, and Vice President under Jackson's successor, President Andrew Johnson.

In 1836, Van Buren was elected as the eighth President of the United States, succeeding Jackson. His presidency was marked by a commitment to the principles of limited government and fiscal responsibility. However, his tenure was also challenged by economic turmoil, including the Panic of 1837, which led to a severe economic depression during his presidency. Despite facing criticism for his handling of the economic crisis, Van Buren's presidency was characterized by significant achievements, including his efforts to maintain peace and stability in the face of domestic and international challenges. He also played a pivotal role in shaping the modern political landscape, laying the groundwork for the emergence of the Democratic Party as a dominant political force in American politics.

After leaving office, Van Buren remained active in public life, advocating for various causes and offering his insights on matters of governance and policy. He passed away on July 24, 1862, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, integrity, and dedication to the principles of democracy and public service. Martin Van Buren's contributions to American politics and governance continue to be remembered and studied today, making him a significant figure in the nation's history. His presidency, though marked by challenges, reflects his enduring commitment to the ideals of liberty, democracy, and the common good.

 

The Romantic Age of American Politics

Martin Van Buren: The Romantic Age of American Politics by John Niven is a captivating biography that offers readers a comprehensive exploration of the life and political career of the eighth President of the United States. Niven delves deep into the complexities of Van Buren's character, his rise to power, and his enduring impact on American politics during the tumultuous period of the 19th century. Born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York, Martin Van Buren emerged as a prominent figure in the early days of the American republic. Niven paints a vivid portrait of Van Buren's formative years, including his early involvement in New York state politics and his rise to prominence as a skilled political organizer and strategist.

Van Buren's political career was characterized by his adept navigation of the shifting alliances and rivalries of the era. As a key figure in the emerging Democratic Party, he played a crucial role in shaping the modern political landscape, advocating for the principles of limited government, states' rights, and popular sovereignty. Niven's biography explores Van Buren's presidency, which was marked by both triumphs and challenges. As President from 1837 to 1841, Van Buren faced the daunting task of navigating the economic turmoil of the Panic of 1837 and its aftermath. Despite his efforts to address the crisis, including his establishment of an independent treasury system, Van Buren was ultimately unable to stem the tide of economic hardship that gripped the nation during his presidency.

Through meticulous research and engaging prose, Niven offers readers a nuanced understanding of Van Buren's legacy and his enduring impact on American politics. Martin Van Buren: The Romantic Age of American Politics is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of the United States and the individuals who shaped its destiny during this pivotal period of the nation's development.

Martin Van Buren and the American Political System

Martin Van Buren and the American Political System by Donald B. Cole offers readers a compelling exploration of the life and political career of the eighth President of the United States. Cole's biography delves into the intricacies of Van Buren's character, his contributions to the American political system, and his enduring legacy in shaping the nation's governance. Martin Van Buren rose from modest beginnings to become a central figure in American politics during the early 19th century. Cole provides readers with insight into Van Buren's formative years, including his involvement in New York state politics and his rise to prominence as a skilled political tactician.

Van Buren's political career was marked by his adept understanding of the American political system and his role in shaping its development. As a key architect of the Democratic Party, he championed principles such as states' rights, limited government, and the primacy of popular sovereignty. Cole's biography delves into Van Buren's presidency, which was characterized by both triumphs and challenges. Serving as President from 1837 to 1841, Van Buren grappled with the economic upheaval of the Panic of 1837 and its aftermath. Despite his efforts to address the crisis through measures such as the establishment of an independent treasury system, Van Buren faced significant opposition and was ultimately unable to fully resolve the economic turmoil of his time in office. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, Cole offers readers a nuanced understanding of Van Buren's contributions to the American political system. Martin Van Buren and the American Political System is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of the United States and the individuals who shaped its governance during this critical period of the nation's development.

 

Martin Van Buren quotes

"It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't."

"The less government interferes with private pursuits, the better for general prosperity."

"It is easier to prevent bad habits than to break them."

"As to the presidency, the two happiest days of my life were those of my entrance upon the office and my surrender of it."

"The people under our system, like the king in a monarchy, never dies."

"The test of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there."

"There is a power in public opinion in this country - and I thank God for it: for it is the most honest and best of all powers - which will not tolerate an incompetent or unworthy man to hold in his weak or wicked hands the lives and fortunes of his fellow-citizens."

"I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have."