Andrew Jackson’s Courage
Posted by Orrin Woodward on June 30, 2012
Here is part one of a two part series on battle Andrew Jackson faced against the USA Second National Bank. What a powerful example of courageous leadership in action. The Mental Fitness Challenge is a key part of any potential leaders plan to help in developing this type of courage and character. I am proud to say that the LIFE Business is filled with this type of leadership throughout its ranks.
Sincerely,
Andrew Jackson
Andrew Jackson Slays Multi-Headed Monster
Andrew Jackson, when he was right and when he was wrong, was always a man of strong convictions. He stood by his love of liberty even when it hurt him politically to do so. It takes courage to stand by one’s convictions, especially when a person is offered peace and financial rewards to surrender them. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; rather, it’s the acknowledgement that one’s principles are bigger than one’s fears, regardless of the consequences.
In today’s “situational ethics” society, principles are sold out for pragmatism, making courageous stories like Andrew Jackson’s as rare as gold-backed currency. Consequently, much could be learned by the study of Andrew Jackson’s stand against the “moneyed interest” drive to re-charter the Second National Bank. Indeed, through reading Jackson’s battles against the Bank, one yearns to find leaders with similar backbones to break the Federal Reserve monopoly on America’s money. Let’s examine this historic battle between the President Andrew Jackson of the United States of America versus President Nicholas Biddle of the Second National Bank. Several questions come to mind. First, what are the leadership lessons learned from this historic struggle between the statist and anti-statists philosophies of money? Second, how do the lessons from Jackson’s battle apply in today’s battle for monetary freedom?
Inflationary Policies
Jackson resided in the thriving American West, witnessing first hand the dire effects of inflationary banking policies in the western land prices. Jackson learned the salutary lesson of hard money (gold and silver coins) vs. the prevalent paper based inflationary policies loved by bankers and wealthy merchants. Inflationary methods allowed banks to print paper, pretending the paper had value, even though it wasn’t backed by gold or silver. Without a check on the banks, like requiring banks to submit gold for paper dollars when requested, one can easily see how banks would fall into the trap of printing more paper than could possibly be redeemed on demand. Profits for banks can increase greatly in the short term by interest collected on nothing more than paper, causing more money to flow into the marketplace which raises the prices of consumer goods as more printed dollars are available. The splurge of printed money only corrects itself when consumers become aware of the inflationary policies of banks, quickly requesting gold for their inflated paper dollars before the banks runs out their reserves.
In theory, paper money should be a promissory note, representing gold, but easier to carry on one’s person. The minute the promissory note is not backed by real value (gold, silver etc), it becomes fraudulent with the bank benefitting by printing monopoly money at the expense of all consumers who now own dollars less valuable than before the fraudulent activity. For example, if we doubled the amount of dollars in circulation today, giving everyone twice as much money as they have currently, each dollar would quickly fall to half of its former value, prices would rise as each person’s dollars bid up the prices in an attempt to purchase the means for living. Printing money does not produce wealth, but it can benefit the few at the expense of the many, a temptation too lucrative to be left in the hands of government politicians and their wealthy patrons.
Big Banks Marry Big Business
When Jackson was elected President of the United States, one of his missions was to end the syndicate of control over America’s money supply by three power hungry groups: foreign interests, big business, and big politicians. Jackson believed that banks ought to run like any other businesses, having to sink or swim based upon their own business acumen, needing reserves to secure their loans provided. But when a national bank receives the protection of the federal government to ensure its solvency, this is no longer free enterprise, but a form of fascism where government and business partner, reducing competition amongst banks, and increasing the cost of the entire system.
This would be similar to all automotive companies agreeing to fix prices on cars, certainly improving the profits for manufacturers, while decreasing the downside risk of the manufacturers, all of this, at the expense of the customers. The Second National Bank received the deposits of the American Treasury Department, ensuring its solvency, providing a special deal for the bank and its investors at the expense of other banks and all customers. Nicholas Biddle, the president of the Second National Bank, was not alarmed, at first, with Jacksons rhetoric, having heard many politicians boast of drastic changes when entering office, only to conform into the system when elected. But Jackson character was different, his campaign promises before aligned with his actions after election, necessitating a showdown between the President and the money interest behind the Bank.
Nicholas Biddle versus Andrew Jackson
Biddle and Jackson were opposites in upbringing and temperament. The former, a scion of a high-society Philadelphia family, did not like the rough and tumble behavior of the American political process. Choosing to avoid the masses, he preferred instead to do his work behind the scenes. Jackson, on the other hand, loved the volatile political process and was elected by the populist mass of voters across America. No two people better contrasted the opposing viewpoints in the American political arena. One, a believer in wealth and privilege for the chosen few; the other, an equal opportunity for all to rise based upon merit. Jackson shared his disdain for the Bank in his first Presidential message proclaiming, “Both the constitutionality and the expediency of the law creating this bank are well questioned by a large portion of our fellow citizens, and it must be admitted by all that it has failed in the great end of establishing an uniform and sound currency.” Biddle, however, seemingly unconcerned initially, responded to Jackson’s message with a cool indifference. He wrote of Jackson, “They should be treated as the honest though erroneous notions of one who intends well.” Clearly, Biddle did not believe Jackson had the courage or fortitude to fight against the entrenched money-interest feeding off America’s body politic.
Biddle quickly discovered that Jackson’s courage was even greater than his rhetoric, when he confirmed Jackson’s intentions to end the Bank’s charter. Undaunted, he quickly rallied his political supporters to his cause. Two of the biggest and brightest political stars, Henry Clay and Daniel Webster, were enlisted by the Bank in support of the recharter initiative. With Clay and Webster’s help, the Bank moved for an early renewal of its charter, hoping to force Jackson’s hand before his second term election. Jackson, the moneyed-interest believed, would not risk his re-election on a veto of the Bank’s charter. Once again, the special-interest elites had underestimated Jackson courage. The Bank bill, with Clay and Webster’s support, passed both houses and arrived on Jackson’s desk for approval. Most people would have bowed to the “inevitable” and approved the bill to ensure his re-election; Jackson however, was not like most people. In his historic veto address, Jackson declared war on the wealthy aristocracy attempting to subvert the American Republic. His veto address should be read by everyone concerned with freedom and equality of opportunity. Jackson, in part, stated:
It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes. Distinctions in society will always exist under every just government. Equality of talents, of education, or of wealth can not be produced by human institutions. In the full enjoyment of the gifts of Heaven and the fruits of superior industry, economy, and virtue, every man is equally entitled to protection by law; but when the laws undertake to add to these natural and just advantages artificial distinctions, to grant titles, gratuities, and exclusive privileges, to make the rich richer and the potent more powerful, the humble members of society-the farmers, mechanics, and laborers-who have neither the time nor the means of securing like favors to themselves, have a right to complain of the injustice of their Government. There are no necessary evils in government. Its evils exist only in its abuses. If it would confine itself to equal protection, and as Heaven does its rains, shower its favors alike on the high and the low, the rich and the poor, it would be an unqualified blessing.
To be continued in the next blog post.
55 Responses to “Andrew Jackson’s Courage”
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Matt Mielke said
Bravo Orrin! So timely is this historical example. I will share this to all I can.
Carl Buchanan said
My prayer is that our leaders will be moved by our prayer 1st, example 2nd and friendship 3rd, to be drawn closer to God and turn from evilness and get down on their knees and repent. Great teaching Orrin keep it coming. Excellent Job of writing & illustration.
John HATCHELL said
Andrew Jackson , a son of humility, a son of the true US Republic, Where are you now ? LIFE builds men and women of this caliber… Come join us… Rock on Orrin!!
Bill Eder said
“Amen and AMEN” Thank you,Orrin for this blog. We certainly need men of Andrew Jackson’s courage and resolve in our time.
does any one have or remember U S currency had printed on the bills “Silver certiricate” that has now been with replaced “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE.” Jackson was right on.
Orrin Woodward said
Bill, Wait till part two! It’s amazing the historical documents captured on this event and how the Bank attempted to manipulate Congress to recharter the bank. Principles are imperiled when Money and Politics are allied. thanks, Orrin
Kristen Seidl said
Powerful Orrin! Thank you for bringing this great leader back to the forefront. I remember reading about Andrew Jackson in school but it made no impact in my life whatsoever at that time. Because of LIFE and my new found hunger to learn history, this courageous leadership example of Andrew Jackson now leaves an imprint in my heart.
Imelda Roman said
In deed a great leader then and one we can learn from today. I found myself with dictionary on hand to clarify and understand some of the words used, it has been a while I had done that, but so fulfilling. Thank you Mr. Woodward for sharing your wisdom.
Joanne Brandtjen said
Powerful indeed Kristen! Andrew Jackson certainly displays the kind of leadership we need today! Great post Orrin- looking forward to the continuation. History is actually interesting to learn now; especially with you, George Guzzardo, another PC I love to learn from, and all our leaders that pour out this invaluable information for everyone! God bless!
Tim Marks said
Orrin
Great stuff.
As the saying goes ” we can learn so much from history”
CAN being the operative word of course
Tim
Mary Hermsen said
Thanks, Orrin, for another great historical article. As Kristin said, I’m sure I also learned something about Andrew Jackson while I was in school, but nothing that was this interesting or timely. You have a knack for story telling. Thanks for passsing it on to us! Knowledge is power.
Debra Mohr said
Great historical example. We need more Andrew Jackson’s!!!!!
Steve Leurquin said
Great article Orrin! Looking forward to part Two. If only Andrew Jackson were running for president right now!
Bill Eder said
Right on Steve. He’d get my vote. There must be someone out there of the mind set of Andrew Jackson. We sure could use people likehim to straighten our messed up economy.
Reginald Shorey said
Amen to that Orrin, but that’s why we have LIFE and TEAM. Educate the people and bring back the principles we were founded on.
Peggi Kern said
Thank you, Orrin! I’m looking forward to part 2. This is an education in freedom, courage and finance for me.
jimmy varghese said
the country needs more leaders like this and they’re gonna come from the LIFE TEAM!
aaron johns said
i agree that courage will conquer fear
aaron johns said
if trade based on gold is international the it should be practiced here at home.
Heather Coleman said
Reading this ia an eye-opener. If it can happen in one country it can probably happen in another ( i.e. Australia) and that we do need to take notice at what is going on. Life long education is essential. I am learing so much from my involvement with the LIFE business. Thank you Orrin.
Alex Obiden said
“There are no necessary evils in government. Its evils exist only in its abuses.”What a quote!!!! Relate this to Chris Brady’s post about how excuses can be a learning experience, and wow, or government could really make change!!!
Mary Spengler said
Andrew Jackson is so needed at this time in our history, especially with the way the justices of our Supreme Court considers it their duty to rewrite our Constitution. Orrin, you, Chris and the Policy Council, through LIFE, are the beacon of light for all of us. Thank you.
Juleen Ray said
Orrin, thank you for your time putting this information together. We need to be reminded of what some individuals have done in the past and realize that we too can stand up and make the changes necessary to restore the rights of the individuals…which will restore freedom. We need to be VICTORS not victims!
Paul & Lisa Elliott said
Great post.
JohnMay said
Great piece Orrin. One must ask, where is today’s Andrew Jackson. What is he doing? Is he one person, or the resolute collection of many? Will he or they, rise to the task at hand, or will we as freedom loving Americans owe the Forefathers, a collective apology because of our inaction?
M. Fitzgerald said
“Principles are imperiled when Money and Politics are allied!” There is a mouthful!!!
Joe McGuire said
Wow what a powerful message from History. Great post Orrin!!!
Heidi said
I loved the CD by you and Chris that explained more of the story regarding the elite rich and the big banks and the government. They have done such a good job of deflecting the blame for America’s issues that most citizens don’t know where to start. Keep pointing the way, Orrin. Thank you for all you do.
Steven Johnson said
Can’t wait for part 2. You’ve got me on the edge of my seat.
brian powers said
Orrin,
Truth from a man with Courage! Sure did not learn most of what I’ve learned in the last 10 years working with you, in my early public education days. You are a restorer of truth and we are in the battle with you my friend.
May GOD Bless and protect you from the evil doers
Brian
Mike Bouknight said
This is a great post and history lesson. It ties in perfectly with Larry VanBuskirk’s Economics CDs. I’m looking forward to Part 2.
Wes Smith said
I can’t wait for part two!
David.Springsteen@THE-TEAM.BIZ said
Thanks for reminding us of the great men such as President Jackson (Rascals) throughout our country’s short history. We can not survive as a free nation without taking these individuals examples to heart and standing on their shoulders to move this country back to the Founding Fathers’ vision for this great nation. Knowing the truth requires us to become involved in the process. I appreciate that Team/Life is not only inward minded, to improve ourselves, but also outward minded to improve our world. Great job Orrin in getting the word out!
T said
An excellent reminder of the importance of aligning ourselves with what is good…and the effects of our choices.
Dennis Squires said
I hear more and more people questioning our national policies, but few have enough knowledge to make an informed argument. Thank you Orrin for sharing truth!
Elaine Mallios said
I can’t imagine the courage to veto the bank bill. Andrew Jackson was quite a man. So many parallels with our current system – and it is in peril. Keep the info flowing. Thanks.
SJ Barakony said
Fantastic post, Orrin. Thank you for serving all of us by sharing truth and wisdom from the ages!
p.s. Would you say that Calvin Coolidge is/was the closest President to a freedom fighter in the 20th Century as Jackson was in the 19th?
Blessings, ROK of Kaizen.
Kim Lariviere said
Looking forward to part 2. History has never been so interesting.
Joshua said
Mr. Woodward,
Simply fascinating..I was just sharing with my wife information from Larry VanBuskirk’s economics 301 cd, which was startling to say the least, and she said, “And why is all that information important to know?” I use to wonder the same thing. (Fortunately for me, my wife has an incredible amount of talents and strengths that far outweigh mine and my newly beginner level of economic wisdom). Now I see how correct and important information applied is so vital to our freedom. I remember I did not pass economics the first time around in high school, due to how boring and decievingly complex it was. With your incredible teachings and leadership (Orrin, Larry, Chris and the PC), I am so fascinated and hungry to learn more truth about economics. I am driven about what I can do to improve my personal and family economy which then I may be able to influence others through my actions to help the cause for
freedom. I look forward to part two..thank you Orrin,
God Bless,
Joshua
Scott Coons said
Orrin,
Great post! We need people of this type of character and leadership today! I thank God everyday for TEAM/LIFE and the principles being taught. We will make a difference one household at a time!
God Bless,
Scott
Reginald Shorey said
Great post Orrin. If we all could have the courage President Jackson had what a different world this would be. Looking forward to part II
Yancy Chaj said
Wow what a leader with courage and what a difference with todays leaders and we sur have lots to work on ourselves to muster up that courage in ourselves.
Thank You
Miriam said
Thanks Orrin! Understanding history helps me grasp the same issues in the present!
Kim Decker said
Orrin, Wow another story most americans don’t know. What is happening around this world..its all around in the government. You read about these kind if acts as well as so many others ones as today I heard of the chemtrails that airplanes leave in the sky. Why I ask as this in the long run is going to hurt all of us even them that are allowing it now. Evil gets no justice. My GOD we all need to take our stand.
TJ Schneider said
Outstanding!!! Simple and to the point. Everyone should read this. I’ll do my part to forward this to as many as I can…
titus jumper said
Man an outstanding example of character in action. Can’t wait till number two
Greg Johnson said
Orrin,
I believe there are few men or women in today’s political arena willing to risk personal security for the good of the nation. With an increased need of this awareness it is my hope that a new group of leaders will emerge with the courage of their convictions to stand for their country versus their personal ambitions.
Jeanne Fritch said
Great historical teaching, Orrin!
Peggi Kern said
Orrin,
Thank you so much for sharing the information you find/learn. I will say that the more I read from the leader’s blogs the more I realize how little I know and understand. I can’t wait to read your next blog to learn more.
Thank you for your servant heart.
Tim
Carl Buchanan said
We should never look to our government to solve our problems. A famous general stated “Duty is the most sublime word in our English language “Do your duty in all things…You cannot do more…nor should you ever wish to do less” Robert E. Lee.
We have existed as a nation under God…Indivisible…with Liberty and Justice for All…for 236 years this is still true. After the death of King Solomon…230 years later Israel became divided. We will not be divided!!! We will not live in tyranny on our knees… not on my watch!!! How about you..? What makes this country so great is God, the Son and Holy Spirit. We are a Nation under God Indivisible currently for 236 years. We can work hard change ourselves, change our community, change our states, change our country and ultimately change our world. Let’s play the Game and keep score… thank you Orrin for inspiring us to move in the right direction.
Richard Kroll Jr. said
Orrin, thank you for leading the charge and DEVELOPING leaders who, like Andrew Jackson, will stand for what they believe is right- despite the personal, professional, or financial cost!
Marc Militello said
I love the examples of history that show us how to handle the problems of the present. COURAGE!! Thanks for the post Orrin!!
Keith Sieracki said
Great example. Economic opportunity without exceptions or exemptions can maintain balance and prosperity.
Mike Hartmann said
Just catching up on such much needed reading . . . Can’t wait to jump into Part II!
Kim Decker said
amzing story Orrin
another true example of courage and big dreams for us all to ponder
Wildtarg said
Outstanding again. Sometimes it is saddening, sometimes baffling, how far we can drift from sound, solid principles into wishes and wantings that we try to address with institutions and techniques instead of virtue and discipline. I remember the late Dr. James Kennedy’s teachings on the ‘Zeitgeist’ and humanity’s susceptibility to emotional suggestion. Science is showing us ever more evidence that, despite all our knowledge and technique-al ability, we are emotionally driven creatures, and we must learn, by instruction and training, to will what we know, rather that what we wish to be true.
Keep going, we’re coming…