The Attempted Assassination of Andrew Jackson: A Historical Account
The Plot to Kill a President
On a dreary January day in 1835, President Andrew Jackson attended the funeral of a South Carolina congressman. Amidst the somber atmosphere, a madman named Richard Lawrence lurked in the shadows, plotting to assassinate the nation’s leader.
The Attack and its Aftermath
As Jackson exited the Capitol Building, Lawrence accosted him, firing two pistols in quick succession. Miraculously, both shots misfired, thwarting the assassination attempt. Navy Lieutenant Thomas Gedney and Tennessee congressman Davy Crockett quickly subdued Lawrence, preventing further bloodshed.
The Investigation: Political Motives and Insanity
In the aftermath of the attack, suspicions ran rampant. Jackson himself believed the plot was politically motivated, blaming his rival George Poindexter. However, no evidence supported these claims, and Poindexter was cleared of wrongdoing.
Lawrence’s mental instability became evident during his trial. He claimed to be the 15th-century English king Richard III and believed Jackson had withheld payments that were rightfully his. Despite the prosecution’s efforts, Lawrence was found not guilty by reason of insanity and confined to a mental hospital until his death in 1861.
Jackson’s Hostile Political Landscape
While Lawrence’s insanity played a role in his actions, it was undeniable that Jackson had made powerful enemies during his presidency. His fiery speeches, vetoes, and opposition to the Second Bank of the United States had alienated many politicians.
The Bank War: A Major Source of Antagonism
Jackson’s opposition to the Second Bank of the United States (BUS) was a significant factor in his assassination attempt. The BUS, a powerful financial institution, had become a symbol of the wealthy elite that Jackson believed threatened the common man.
In 1832, Congress passed a bill to renew the BUS’s charter, which Jackson vetoed. The veto triggered a political battle known as the Bank War, which further escalated tensions between Jackson and his opponents.
Jackson’s Triumph and the End of the Second Bank
Despite the Senate censuring him for overstepping his authority, Jackson emerged victorious from the Bank War. The BUS’s charter expired in 1836, and federal funds were diverted to state banks.
Security Deficiencies and the Lesson Learned
The assassination attempt highlighted the lack of security surrounding the White House and Capitol. Visitors were allowed entry without any screening process, leaving the president vulnerable to attack.
Although it would take another 26 years before another U.S. president was targeted for assassination, the attempted murder of Andrew Jackson served as a wake-up call. It led to increased security measures and a greater awareness of the dangers faced by those in high office.