'THERE WAS SOMEBODY ALWAYS DYING AND LEAVING JACKSON AS GUARDIAN': THE WARDS OF ANDREW JACKSON

Abstract

Andrew Jackson has been widely studied through many lenses of history. However, the lens of kinship has not been widely incorporated. This thesis provides a study of Jackson through kinship, by exposing his many wards, and when possible, his relationship with them. Through the examination of court minutes, correspondence, court cases, and other records, it can be determined that Jackson, both legally and informally, cared for thirty-six known wards. Each ward is individually discussed, although the length of the examination varies based on available sources. Jackson's political and economic advantages to these wards are also shown. Most of Jackson's wards were kin to him through his wife's extensive family, but many were children of friends. In some cases Jackson's relationship to a ward is not clear. This study reveals a more developed paternal view of Jackson, and sets the groundwork for continued research on this aspect of Jackson's life.