Jon Meachan creates an informative, easy flowing account of the Jackson years. No matter what side you stand on, for with Jackson there tends to not be a middle ground--its either love or hate like so many of the great personalities of the past. The account created by Meachan in American Lion creates a comprehensive encyclopedia of the White House years, creating an intricate story with lively characters, including as in any great story line a constant foil be it in the form of Henry Clay or John Quincy Adams.
There would of course have been great interest in more information, especially regarding Jackon's early years that would have helped shed a light on the many motives behind Jackson's actions especially since his stances were so strongly based on his own personal ideologies.
Although clearly taking a Pro-Jackson stance, Meachan makes sure to not shy away from Jackson's mistakes. He does however give Jackson an easy pass on many of his mistakes and shies away from really questioning his often Messianic leanings. He gives Jackson a free pass on his slavery views and on the economic depression that followed his two terms in office.
Overall its a good read that sparks a great interest in early American history (Can't wait to start books on John Quincy Adams and Thomas Jefferson). One of the most interesting aspects is realizing how the great figures emphasize the importance of specific branches of government. There has not been a non-executive politician to have the strength, respect, and power that Clay, Webster, Calhoun, and Adams had in Congress during Jackson's reign.
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