Chapters 41-43 Summary and Analysis

The final section of the book, "Patriarch of Democracy, 1837-1845," opens with "The Home Front," a look at Jackson's first four years in retirement. An old man when he enters the White House, Jackson is a very old man as he leaves. He is relieved to relinquish power to Van Buren, essentially his appointed successor. The charming politician vows to carry on Old Hickory's tradition and perfect the work he has begun. The Whigs nominated William Henry Harrison, the other hero of the War of 1812, but Van Buren holds off him and two lesser candidates. Jackson is gratified. He wishes he could tie up loose ends in Texas, but believes that Van Buren will carry on. Jackson calls upon the new Chief Justice, Roger Taney, to help craft his farewell address, but the heart of the message is pure...