Martin Van Buren - 8th President of the US - 2024

Martin Van Buren was actually the 8th President of the United States. He served as president from 1837 to 1841. Van Buren was born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York. Before becoming president, he held various political positions, including serving as a U.S. Senator, Secretary of State, and Vice President under President Andrew Jackson.

Table of Contents

During his presidency, Van Buren faced economic challenges, including the Panic of 1837, which was a severe financial crisis. His response to the economic downturn, known as the “Divorce Bill,” aimed to separate the government from banking and currency issues but was not successful in alleviating the crisis.

Early Life and Political Rise

Martin Van Buren was born to a Dutch family in Kinderhook, New York, on December 5, 1782. He grew up in a politically active household and received a formal education. Van Buren became involved in New York politics and aligned himself with the Democratic-Republican Party, led by Thomas Jefferson.

Martin Van Buren’s early life and political rise played a crucial role in shaping his career and eventual presidency. Born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York, Van Buren grew up in a family of Dutch descent that had been living in the area for several generations.

Van Buren’s father, Abraham Van Buren, was a farmer, tavern keeper, and small-business owner. Although not wealthy, the family was respectable and well-regarded in their community. Young Martin received a formal education at local schools, where he displayed intelligence and an aptitude for learning.

Get Full Scholarship Abroad with Free Visa.

During his formative years, Van Buren witnessed the political discussions and events surrounding the early years of the United States. The Revolutionary War and the subsequent formation of a new nation influenced his understanding of government and instilled in him a sense of civic duty.

Van Buren’s early exposure to politics and his keen interest in public affairs led him to become involved in New York politics. He aligned himself with the Democratic-Republican Party, which was founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. The party advocated for limited government, agrarianism, and states’ rights.

In 1803, at the age of 20, Van Buren began studying law and was admitted to the bar in 1803. He established a law practice in Kinderhook and quickly gained a reputation for his legal acumen and political savvy.

Van Buren’s political rise in New York started with his election to the New York State Senate in 1812. He served as a state senator until 1820, during which time he supported policies aligned with the Democratic-Republican Party’s principles.

Get Financial Assistance For Scholarships & Grants

In 1821, Van Buren was elected to the United States Senate, where he served until 1828. As a senator, he aligned himself with the emerging political faction known as the “Albany Regency.” This group consisted of influential New York Democrats who sought to consolidate power and advance their party’s interests.

Van Buren’s rise to prominence within the Democratic-Republican Party and the Albany Regency positioned him as a skilled political strategist and organizer. His support for Andrew Jackson’s presidential campaign in 1828 further solidified his position within the party.

With Jackson’s victory in the presidential election, Van Buren’s political career soared. Jackson appointed him as Secretary of State in 1829, a position he held until 1831. During his tenure, Van Buren played a vital role in shaping Jackson’s foreign policy and diplomatic agenda.

In 1832, Van Buren’s political fortunes reached new heights when he was selected as Andrew Jackson’s running mate and was elected as Vice President of the United States. He served as Vice President from 1833 to 1837 and developed a close relationship with Jackson, becoming one of his most trusted advisors.

Van Buren’s experiences in New York politics and his successful tenure as Vice President propelled him to secure the Democratic Party’s nomination for the presidency in 1836. He ran as Jackson’s chosen successor and won the election, becoming the 8th President of the United States.

Overall, Martin Van Buren’s early life exposed him to politics and imbued him with a sense of civic duty. His involvement in New York politics, alignment with the Democratic-Republican Party, and close association with Andrew Jackson catapulted him into prominent positions, leading to his eventual presidency. Van Buren’s political rise showcased his strategic abilities, organizational skills, and commitment to furthering the principles and interests of his party.

Formation of the Democratic Party

Van Buren played a pivotal role in the formation of the Democratic Party. He recognized the need for a new political organization to support President Andrew Jackson’s policies and bring together various factions. Van Buren’s organizational skills and political maneuvering helped establish the Democratic Party as a dominant force in American politics.

Martin Van Buren’s involvement in the formation of the Democratic Party marked a significant turning point in American political history. During the era in which Van Buren emerged as a prominent political figure, the existing political landscape was characterized by the dominance of the Democratic-Republican Party, which had been the dominant party since the presidency of Thomas Jefferson.

However, as President Andrew Jackson’s second term approached its end in the late 1820s and early 1830s, political divisions within the Democratic-Republican Party were becoming increasingly apparent. These divisions stemmed from differing opinions on issues such as economic policy, internal improvements, and the balance of power between the federal government and the states.

Recognizing the growing fractures within the Democratic-Republican Party, Van Buren saw an opportunity to rally support around President Jackson’s policies and unite various factions under a new political banner. Van Buren, along with other like-minded politicians, sought to create a cohesive and organized political party that could serve as a counterforce to their opponents.

Van Buren’s organizational skills and political maneuvering were instrumental in the establishment of the Democratic Party. He recognized the importance of grassroots organizing, building coalitions, and developing a strong party apparatus. He used his extensive political network, cultivated over years of involvement in New York politics, to lay the foundation for a new political organization.

One of the key events that signaled the formation of the Democratic Party was the creation of the Democratic-Republican National Convention in 1832. This convention, organized by Van Buren and his allies, brought together like-minded individuals from across the country to nominate Andrew Jackson for re-election and solidify the party’s platform.

During this period, Van Buren’s influence and leadership were evident. He played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s ideology, advocating for policies that emphasized states’ rights, limited government interference, and economic populism. Van Buren’s political philosophy, often referred to as “Van Buren Democracy” or the “Bucktail Movement,” sought to appeal to the common man and champion the interests of the working class.

The formation of the Democratic Party under Van Buren’s guidance marked a departure from the previous party system and set the stage for the modern two-party system in the United States. The party’s organizational structure, cohesive platform, and political strategies laid the groundwork for its subsequent success in American politics.

In 1836, Van Buren himself became the Democratic Party’s nominee for the presidency, and with Jackson’s endorsement, he won the election and assumed office in 1837. Van Buren’s presidency solidified the Democratic Party’s position as a dominant force in American politics, further validating his efforts in establishing and shaping the party.

Overall, Martin Van Buren’s role in the formation of the Democratic Party cannot be overstated. His organizational skills, political acumen, and ability to navigate the complexities of party politics were instrumental in creating a cohesive and powerful political organization that would shape American politics for decades to come.

Vice Presidency and “Kitchen Cabinet”

As Vice President under Andrew Jackson (1829-1837), Van Buren had a close relationship with the president. He was known for his political acumen and was influential in shaping Jackson’s policies. Van Buren also had a group of trusted advisors known as the “Kitchen Cabinet” who provided him with political guidance and support.

Martin Van Buren’s tenure as Vice President under President Andrew Jackson was marked by a close relationship and significant influence on the administration’s policies. Van Buren’s political acumen and strategic thinking made him a valuable advisor to President Jackson, and he played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the presidency.

Van Buren’s influence on Jackson’s policies was evident in various areas, including economic policy, Indian removal, and the spoils system. As Vice President, Van Buren championed the principles of limited government intervention in the economy and supported Jackson’s push to dismantle the Second Bank of the United States.

One of the defining features of Van Buren’s vice presidency was his “Kitchen Cabinet,” a term used to describe his group of trusted advisors who provided him with political guidance and support. The name “Kitchen Cabinet” reflected the informal nature of this group, as they were often consulted in the White House kitchen, away from the formalities of the official Cabinet.

The members of the Kitchen Cabinet were a mix of politicians, journalists, and personal friends who were deeply loyal to Van Buren and shared his political views. This informal advisory circle allowed Van Buren to gather a range of perspectives and shape his own understanding of key issues.

The Kitchen Cabinet played a significant role in Van Buren’s political decision-making process and had considerable influence over Jackson’s policies as well. They helped Van Buren navigate the complexities of party politics, provided strategic advice on political appointments, and shaped the messaging and political strategy of the administration.

One of the most prominent members of the Kitchen Cabinet was Amos Kendall, who served as Van Buren’s chief political advisor. Kendall was a skilled political operative and played a crucial role in shaping Van Buren’s public image and messaging. Other notable members included Francis Preston Blair, Benjamin F. Butler, and John Overton.

The Kitchen Cabinet’s influence and role in shaping policy sometimes drew criticism, as it bypassed the formal channels of the Cabinet and raised concerns about the concentration of power in the executive branch. However, Van Buren and Jackson defended the practice, arguing that it allowed for more open and honest discussions and a closer alignment with their political vision.

Van Buren’s close relationship with President Jackson and the influence of the Kitchen Cabinet were instrumental in his subsequent rise to the presidency. After serving as Vice President, Van Buren successfully leveraged his political connections and the support of Jackson’s loyalists to secure the Democratic Party’s nomination for the presidency in 1836.

In conclusion, Martin Van Buren’s Vice Presidency under Andrew Jackson was marked by a close relationship with the president, significant influence on policies, and the establishment of an informal advisory group known as the Kitchen Cabinet. Van Buren’s political acumen and the support of his trusted advisors played a crucial role in shaping the direction of the administration and set the stage for his own presidency.

Trail of Tears

Van Buren’s presidency was marked by the forced relocation of Native American tribes known as the Trail of Tears. Despite his personal sympathy for the Native Americans, Van Buren did not oppose Jackson’s Indian Removal Act and oversaw the implementation of the policy, resulting in the displacement and suffering of thousands of Native Americans.

During Martin Van Buren’s presidency, one of the most tragic and controversial events in American history occurred: the forced relocation of Native American tribes known as the Trail of Tears. While Van Buren personally sympathized with Native Americans and recognized their plight, he did not oppose President Andrew Jackson’s Indian Removal Act and oversaw its implementation.

The Indian Removal Act, signed into law by President Jackson in 1830, authorized the relocation of Native American tribes residing in the southeastern United States, primarily the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole nations, to designated Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

Despite the vehement protests and legal challenges from Native American tribes and their supporters, the federal government, under Van Buren’s administration, proceeded with the forced removals. The implementation of the Indian Removal Act resulted in the displacement and suffering of thousands of Native Americans, with devastating consequences.

The Cherokee Nation’s forced removal, known as the Trail of Tears, stands as one of the most tragic episodes of this era. In 1838, under Van Buren’s presidency, approximately 16,000 Cherokee people were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands in Georgia and the surrounding states. They were driven from their homes and forced to embark on a perilous journey to Indian Territory, which is present-day Oklahoma. The journey, often on foot, lasted for months, and many Native Americans perished due to exposure, disease, and starvation. It is estimated that around 4,000 Cherokee people died during the forced removal.

While Van Buren personally sympathized with the plight of Native Americans, he did not take a strong stand against the policy of Indian removal. His administration prioritized the interests of white settlers and the belief in westward expansion over the rights and well-being of Native American tribes.

It is important to note that opposition to the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears did exist at the time. Individuals such as Davy Crockett, Henry Clay, and others voiced their objections to the policy. However, Van Buren’s role as president meant that he was responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Indian Removal Act, and he did not take significant action to halt or mitigate the suffering of Native American tribes affected by the policy.

The Trail of Tears stands as a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the injustices and tragic consequences of the forced removal and displacement of Native American tribes. While Van Buren may have personally sympathized with the Native Americans, his presidency oversaw the implementation of a policy that caused immense suffering and loss for these communities.

Economic Challenges

One of the major challenges during Van Buren’s presidency was the economic depression known as the Panic of 1837. It was triggered by a combination of factors, including speculation in the western land and railroad sectors, the closure of banks, and an international economic downturn. Van Buren’s attempts to alleviate the crisis through limited government intervention faced opposition, and the economy did not fully recover during his presidency.

The economic challenges faced by Martin Van Buren during his presidency were primarily centered around the Panic of 1837, a severe economic depression that had far-reaching consequences for the United States. The Panic of 1837 was caused by a combination of factors, and Van Buren’s attempts to address the crisis were met with significant opposition.

One of the primary causes of the Panic of 1837 was rampant speculation in the western land and railroad sectors. Speculators had been buying vast amounts of land and investing heavily in infrastructure projects, often using borrowed money. This speculative bubble eventually burst, leading to a sharp decline in land values and widespread financial distress.

Another contributing factor to the Panic of 1837 was the closure of banks. In the years leading up to the economic downturn, many state-chartered banks had engaged in risky lending practices, such as issuing excessive amounts of paper money and specie (gold and silver) without proper reserves. When the speculative bubble burst, banks faced insolvency, and numerous bank failures occurred.

Additionally, the Panic of 1837 was exacerbated by an international economic downturn. The United States was heavily dependent on international trade, particularly with Europe, and the economic problems abroad had a ripple effect on the American economy. A decline in demand for American goods and a contraction in credit availability further worsened the economic conditions in the country.

Van Buren, facing the economic crisis, pursued a limited government intervention approach to alleviate the situation. He believed in the principle of laissez-faire, favoring minimal government interference in the economy. Van Buren vetoed legislation for federal infrastructure projects and opposed creating a new national bank.

Instead, Van Buren proposed an independent treasury system, also known as the “Divorce Bill,” to separate government funds from private banks. This system aimed to safeguard the federal government’s funds and prevent them from being influenced by the volatility of private banks. However, the implementation of the independent treasury system faced resistance and did not fully address the economic downturn.

Van Buren’s approach of limited government intervention drew criticism from those who believed more decisive action was necessary to combat the crisis. His policies were seen as insufficient in providing relief to the struggling economy, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

The economic challenges persisted throughout Van Buren’s presidency, and the economy did not fully recover during his time in office. The effects of the Panic of 1837 and the subsequent economic depression extended beyond his presidency, with the country experiencing a prolonged period of economic hardship and high unemployment.

In conclusion, the economic challenges faced by Martin Van Buren during his presidency, particularly the Panic of 1837, were the result of a combination of factors, including speculative bubbles, bank failures, and an international economic downturn. Van Buren’s attempts to address the crisis through limited government intervention faced opposition and did not fully resolve the economic challenges of his time.

Election of 1840 and Legacy

In the 1840 presidential election, Van Buren ran for re-election but lost to William Henry Harrison, a Whig candidate. Following his defeat, Van Buren retired from active politics but remained engaged in political discussions and supported causes such as abolitionism.

Martin Van Buren’s legacy is notable for his contributions to the development of the Democratic Party and his efforts to shape American politics during a transformative era. While his presidency faced significant challenges and mixed results, Van Buren is remembered as a skilled politician, an advocate for the common man, and a key figure in the evolution of the American party system.

The 1840 presidential election marked a turning point for Martin Van Buren’s political career. Seeking re-election, Van Buren faced off against Whig candidate William Henry Harrison. The Whigs, a political party formed in opposition to Jacksonian Democrats, employed a highly effective campaign strategy centered around presenting Harrison as a man of the people. Van Buren, on the other hand, struggled to resonate with voters and was criticized for his perceived detachment from ordinary citizens.

Ultimately, Van Buren lost the election to Harrison, who became the ninth President of the United States. The Whigs’ victory marked the end of Van Buren’s presidency and his tenure as a dominant figure in American politics.

Following his defeat in the 1840 election, Van Buren retired from active politics. However, he remained engaged in political discussions and continued to voice his opinions on various issues. Notably, Van Buren became an advocate for the abolitionist cause, opposing the institution of slavery. He joined the Free Soil Party, which sought to prevent the expansion of slavery into new territories.

Van Buren’s legacy is multifaceted and significant. As the eighth President of the United States, he played a crucial role in the development of the Democratic Party. His organizational skills, political maneuvering, and ability to unify various factions laid the foundation for the party’s subsequent success and prominence in American politics. Van Buren’s presidency marked a shift in the party system and contributed to the emergence of a two-party system with the Democrats as a major force.

Van Buren is also remembered as a champion of the common man. He advocated for policies that sought to address the economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens and reduce the influence of wealthy elites. His support for the independent treasury system and his commitment to limited government intervention reflected his belief in empowering the working class and ensuring economic stability.

Furthermore, Van Buren’s efforts in promoting abolitionism and opposing the expansion of slavery demonstrate his commitment to principles of equality and justice. His advocacy for the Free Soil Party and his opposition to the institution of slavery aligned him with the growing movement for emancipation and set a precedent for future political leaders who would fight against the injustices of slavery.

Overall, Martin Van Buren’s legacy encompasses his role in the development of the Democratic Party, his advocacy for the common man, and his support for abolitionism. While his presidency faced challenges and his bid for re-election in 1840 was unsuccessful, Van Buren’s contributions to American politics and his commitment to principles of democracy and equality endure in the annals of history.

Education

Martin Van Buren’s education was modest compared to some of his predecessors and successors in the presidency. He attended local schools in his hometown of Kinderhook, New York, where he received a basic education. He was a bright student, and his early academic abilities were recognized.

At the age of 14, Van Buren briefly studied Latin at the Kinderhook Academy, but his formal education was cut short due to financial constraints. Despite this, he continued to pursue knowledge on his own and became an avid reader, particularly in the fields of law, politics, and history.

Although Van Buren did not attend college, he educated himself in the law by studying legal texts and working as a law clerk. He was admitted to the New York Bar in 1803, at the age of 21, and began practicing law in Kinderhook.

Van Buren’s lack of a college education did not hinder his political career. His intelligence, sharp political instincts, and ability to navigate the complex world of politics allowed him to rise through the ranks and hold prominent positions, including U.S. Senator, Secretary of State, Vice President, and ultimately, President of the United States.

It’s worth noting that during Van Buren’s time, a college education was not as prevalent or essential for a successful political career as it is in modern times. Many political leaders of that era acquired knowledge and skills through apprenticeships, self-study, or practical experience rather than formal higher education.

Marriage and Family

Martin Van Buren was married to Hannah Hoes Van Buren. They met in Kinderhook, New York, where they both grew up. Hannah Hoes was Martin Van Buren’s childhood sweetheart and distant cousin. They married on February 21, 1807, when Van Buren was 24 years old and Hannah was 23.

The couple had five children together: Abraham Van Buren (1807–1873), John Van Buren (1810–1866), Martin Van Buren Jr. (1812–1855), Winfield Scott Van Buren (1814–1814), and Smith Thompson Van Buren (1817–1876). Tragically, three of their sons died at young ages, and only Abraham and Smith Thompson survived into adulthood.

Hannah Hoes Van Buren was a devoted wife and mother, but unfortunately, she suffered from ill health throughout her life. She contracted tuberculosis, and her declining health limited her public appearances during Van Buren’s political career.

Tragically, Hannah Hoes Van Buren passed away on February 5, 1819, at the age of 35, after a prolonged illness. Her death deeply affected Martin Van Buren, and he never remarried. Despite this loss, Van Buren remained close to his two surviving sons and sought solace in his family throughout his life.

In terms of extended family, Martin Van Buren came from a Dutch heritage, with his ancestors being early Dutch settlers in New York. He had several siblings, including three brothers and two sisters. His brother James I. Van Buren served as a U.S. Representative from New York.

Overall, Martin Van Buren’s marriage to Hannah Hoes and his devotion to his family played significant roles in his personal life. Their union produced a small but close-knit family, and despite personal hardships, Van Buren cherished his familial relationships.

Summary

Van Buren was a member of the Democratic Party and was known as the “Little Magician” due to his political skills. He was not successful in securing a second term as president, losing the 1840 election to William Henry Harrison. Van Buren ran for president again in 1848 as a candidate of the Free Soil Party but was not elected.

He played a pivotal role in shaping the Democratic Party, championed policies benefiting the common man, and advocated for abolitionism. While his presidency faced challenges, Van Buren’s contributions to American politics and commitment to principles of democracy and equality endure in history.

After his presidency, Van Buren remained involved in politics and continued to be an influential figure in the Democratic Party. He passed away on July 24, 1862, in Kinderhook, New York.