The life and Presidency of Martin Van Buren, the eighth U.S. president (1837–1841), seems to be largely overlooked. Some reviews of this book note that not much seemed to happen during his presidency.
However, there were some notable firsts in his life and political career and there significant events that occurred. Also, there was much that happened that shaped the nation as it continued to put down roots and develop it’s own culture.
Van Buren was the first president born a U.S. citizen, the first of Dutch descent, and the only president raised speaking a language other than English. A New Yorker, he rose to power as the nation shifted toward modern urban life. Known as the first “professional politician,” Van Buren was a master of strategy and compromise.
This book, though brief, explores his pivotal role in shaping American democracy during a turbulent era marked by economic depression, slavery debates, and westward expansion.
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