![]() For readers seeking a more comprehensive treatment, he refers to the works of earlier biographers (such as Robert Remini). ![]() In his “Author’s Note and Acknowledgements” in the book’s final pages, Meacham admits he did not seek to create a full-scale account of Jackson’s life. It almost seems as though Meacham used his natural gift for writing to just write – but without a grand vision of what he wanted to conclude of Jackson’s life, or of his years as chief executive (which, by all measures, altered the nature of the presidency forever). There is no punch-line, no core message and no lofty judgment of Jackson’s success (or failure) as president – or as a person. In the end, though, I came away somewhat disappointed.Īt a high level, Meacham’s biography seems to lack an overarching thesis or theme. Based on its popular acclaim, and as the last of a half-dozen biographies of Jackson I planned to read, I’ve long looked forward to the opportunity to experience this biography for myself. ![]() Meacham’s “American Lion” is currently the most popular biography (by a wide margin) of this complex, animated, strong-willed and occasionally insufferable president. Meacham has also written about Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, and more recently authored a best-selling biography of Thomas Jefferson. ![]() ![]() Published in 2008, this biography of President Jackson was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 2009. “ American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House” is author Jon Meacham’s fourth book. ![]()
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