Interesting Facts About Andrew Johnson: 15 Revealing Insights

Introduction:

The 17th President of the United States, Andrew Johnson, may not be one of the most well-known figures in American history, but he certainly led a fascinating life. From his humble beginnings to his controversial presidency, there are many interesting facts about Andrew Johnson that shed light on this complex and enigmatic man. In this article, we will delve into 15 revealing insights about Andrew Johnson that may surprise you.

Fact 1: Early Life in Poverty

Andrew Johnson was born on December 29, 1808, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up in poverty and never received a formal education. At the young age of 14, he was apprenticed to a tailor, where he learned the trade that would shape his future career.

Fact 2: Self-Taught Lawyer

Despite his lack of formal education, Andrew Johnson was determined to better himself. He taught himself to read and write, and eventually studied law on his own. In 1828, he was admitted to the Tennessee bar and began practicing law in Greeneville.

Fact 3: Military Service

During the Civil War, Andrew Johnson served as the Military Governor of Tennessee and as a Brigadier General in the Union Army. His support for the Union cause helped to secure his nomination as Abraham Lincoln’s running mate in the 1864 presidential election.

Fact 4: Vice Presidency

Andrew Johnson became Vice President of the United States on March 4, 1865, after Lincoln’s reelection. However, just six weeks later, he was thrust into the presidency following Lincoln’s assassination.

Fact 5: Controversial Reconstruction Policies

As President, Andrew Johnson pursued a lenient policy towards the former Confederate states during Reconstruction, which angered many in the Republican Party. His actions led to clashes with Congress and ultimately his impeachment in 1868.

Fact 6: First President to be Impeached

Andrew Johnson became the first President in American history to be impeached by the House of Representatives. The Senate trial that followed ended in his acquittal by just one vote, narrowly avoiding his removal from office.

Fact 7: “Swing Around the Circle” Campaign

In 1866, Andrew Johnson embarked on a speaking tour known as the “Swing Around the Circle,” where he tried to garner public support for his policies. However, his speeches were often inflammatory and only served to further alienate him from Congress and the American people.

Fact 8: Tennessee Tailor

Throughout his political career, Andrew Johnson was known for his humble and unassuming demeanor. He famously referred to himself as the “Tennessee Tailor” and often portrayed himself as a man of the people.

Fact 9: 10th Anniversary Pardon

On Christmas Day in 1868, Andrew Johnson issued a blanket pardon to all individuals who had participated in the Confederate rebellion, marking the 10th anniversary of Tennessee seceding from the Union. This controversial act further fueled tensions between Johnson and Congress.

Fact 10: Failed 1868 Presidential Run

After narrowly avoiding removal from office, Andrew Johnson sought re-nomination for the presidency in 1868. Despite winning the Democratic nomination, he was ultimately unsuccessful in his bid for reelection, losing to Republican candidate Ulysses S. Grant.

Fact 11: Post-Presidential Years

After leaving office in 1869, Andrew Johnson returned to Tennessee and lived out the remainder of his life in relative obscurity. He remained active in politics but never held another public office.

Fact 12: Legacy of Controversy

Andrew Johnson’s presidency is often remembered for the controversy and conflict that surrounded it. Despite his efforts to reconcile the Southern states with the Union, his lenient approach to Reconstruction and clashes with Congress left a complicated legacy.

Fact 13: Homestead in Greeneville

Andrew Johnson’s former home in Greeneville, Tennessee, has been preserved as a historic site and is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can tour the house where Johnson lived and learn more about his life and presidency.

Fact 14: Family Tragedies

Andrew Johnson’s personal life was not without its share of tragedies. He and his wife, Eliza, had five children together, only two of whom lived to adulthood. The loss of their son, Charles, during the Civil War had a profound impact on Johnson.

Fact 15: Death and Legacy

Andrew Johnson passed away on July 31, 1875, at the age of 66. Despite the controversies of his presidency, he is buried in Greeneville, Tennessee, where his legacy continues to be debated and discussed by historians and scholars.

Conclusion

Andrew Johnson’s life and presidency were marked by struggle, controversy, and conflict. From his humble beginnings to his tumultuous tenure in the White House, he remains a fascinating figure in American history. By exploring these 15 revealing insights into his life and legacy, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the presidency.