Chapter 2 Summary and Analysis

Sam returned to Tennessee and, under the direction of Judge James Trimble, an old family friend, he managed to learn enough to pass the bar exam and become an attorney in a mere six months. He moved to Lebanon, Tennessee, and engaged in a successful practice, which allowed him to use his considerable oratorical skills. He became somewhat of a celebrity in Nashville and Lebanon. Jackson also lived near Nashville, and the two remained close. Through Jackson, Sam received an appointment as colonel in the Tennessee militia. In 1819, Sam was elected attorney general of the state.

Sam experienced a meteoric rise as a politician, after initially resigning as attorney general in favor of lucrative private practice. He supported Andrew Jackson's presidential campaign in 1822-24, and in 1823 he was elected to the House of Representatives. He spent his first term learning and...