Andrew Jackson was the 7th president of the United States of America and a former soldier, general, and frontier man. As president, Jackson fought to advance the rights of a “common man” against a “corrupt aristocracy.”
Born in 1767, Jackson was born in the colonial Carolinas to Andrew and Elizabeth Jackson, ten years before the American Revolutionary War. Jackson wasn’t born to a wealthy family, but he did make a title for himself by becoming a general, expert duelist, and merchant.
Briefly, he served at the House of Representatives, representing Tennessee. After that, he became a judge on the Tennessee Supreme Court and became a commander of a militia in the same state. Jackson served and was present in the many battles of the American Revolutionary War, including the Battle of Horseshoe Bend.
In 1824, Jackson ran for the presidency and won. He served as president until 1837. In his retirement, Jackson remained an active member of the Democratic Party until his death in 1845.
Here are some of the best and famous Andrew Jackson quotes and sayings that reveal his thoughts on war and peace, governing a nation, freedom, and more.
Table of Contents
Famous Andrew Jackson Quotes
Jackson’s most quoted statements capture his direct, bold approach to leadership and life. These words are frequently cited in history books and presidential biographies.
“I was born for a storm, and a calm does not suit me.”
— Letter to Amos Kendall, 1833
Jackson saw himself as a man built for challenge—his whole life was marked by conflict and transformation.
“One man with courage makes a majority.”
— Attributed to Jackson, widely quoted by historians
This phrase reflects Jackson’s belief in the power of individual conviction to shape events.
“Take time to deliberate; but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in.”
— As quoted in The Life of Andrew Jackson by James Parton
His approach was to balance thoughtful preparation with decisive action—an enduring leadership lesson.
Leadership & Determination
Andrew Jackson’s legacy is deeply tied to his tenacity and willpower, especially during his military and political careers.
“The brave man inattentive to his duty is worth little more to his country than the coward who deserts in the hour of danger.”
— Message to Congress, 1836
Jackson believed leadership was grounded in responsibility and courage.
“Any man worth his salt will stick up for what he believes right, but it takes a slightly better man to acknowledge instantly and without reservation that he is in error.”
— Attributed in presidential writings
His humility—when shown—was part of his complex persona.
“You must pay the price if you wish to secure the blessing.”
— Public speech, 1832
A reminder that nothing worthwhile comes without effort.
Democracy & Government
As a champion of the “common man,” Jackson’s statements on democracy remain relevant in civic discourse.
“The people are the government, administering it by their agents; they are the government, the sovereign power.”
— Inaugural Address, 1829
Jackson saw democracy as rooted in the will of the people—not elites.
“The great can protect themselves, but the poor and humble require the arm and shield of the law.”
— Farewell Address, 1837
A quote that underscores his populist appeal, even if history debates his follow-through.
“No free government can stand without virtue in the people, and a lofty spirit of patriotism.”
— Letter to John Coffee, 1816
Jackson’s words emphasize the essential role of values and participation in a working democracy.
On Courage & Conflict
Jackson’s life was marked by personal loss, military leadership, and fierce battles—his quotes about courage are some of his most memorable.
“Heaven will be no heaven to me if I do not meet my wife there.”
— Personal correspondence, reflecting his loyalty and personal courage
“I have always been afraid of banks.”
— Frequently cited in discussions on Jackson’s war with the Second Bank of the United States
Shows his skepticism toward centralized power and corruption.
“To the victors belong the spoils.”
— Though sometimes attributed, this phrase reflects Jacksonian patronage, even if not directly his exact words.
Controversy & Legacy
Jackson’s presidency is also remembered for its divisive policies, such as the Indian Removal Act. It’s essential to approach his quotes with nuance and context.
Note: Andrew Jackson’s legacy is complex and controversial. While some of his policies expanded democracy, others, such as the forced removal of Native Americans, caused immense suffering. We present his words to spark learning and reflection, not as endorsements.
“It is a damn poor mind indeed which can’t think of at least two ways to spell any word.”
— Attributed to Jackson, often cited to reflect his “common man” style
“The individual who refuses to defend his rights when called by his government, deserves to be a slave, and must be punished as an enemy to his country and a friend to her foe.”
— Address to Tennessee Volunteers, 1812
Closing Thoughts
Andrew Jackson’s quotes offer a window into the ambitions, convictions, and contradictions of one of America’s most impactful presidents. His words, whether stirring or provocative, continue to inspire debate and reflection. By understanding the man behind the quotes, we gain insights into both his era and our own.
