how was andrew jackson a good president?

http://www.pbs.org/kcet/andrewjackson/themes/was_andrewjackson_good_president.html

Trail of tears - bad

no US bank bad or good?
supported slavery - bad
supported democracy and liberty (for some people) - good

To analyze how Andrew Jackson was a good president, we need to consider various perspectives on his presidency and evaluate his achievements. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach this question:

1. Research Andrew Jackson's presidency: Start by gathering information about the major events and policies that occurred during Jackson's presidency, which spanned from 1829 to 1837. Look into his notable actions, such as the Nullification Crisis, Indian Removal Act, and the establishment of the modern Democratic Party.

2. Examine economic policies: Jackson implemented several economic measures that were generally seen as positive during his time. He paid off the national debt, vetoed the rechartering of the Second Bank of the United States, and redistributed federal funds into state banks, aiming to promote economic opportunities and prevent excessive concentration of power in the hands of the wealthy.

3. Consider political reforms: Jackson is often seen as a champion of political democracy. He expanded suffrage by eliminating property ownership requirements for white males, making the political process more accessible to ordinary citizens. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of the "common man" and fought against entrenched political elites.

4. Assess foreign policy accomplishments: Jackson's presidency witnessed foreign policy successes, such as the removal of Spanish influence from Florida through the First Seminole War and the negotiation of various treaties with Native American tribes. These actions were aimed at securing American territorial integrity and expanding westward.

5. Recognize his popularity among the people: Throughout his presidency, Jackson remained highly popular among the common citizens who admired his perceived authenticity, determination, and willingness to challenge the establishment.

6. Consider contrasting perspectives: While Jackson certainly had notable achievements, it's essential to remain aware of the criticisms surrounding his presidency as well. Controversies such as the forced removal of Native Americans along the Trail of Tears and concerns about the concentration of executive power have to be balanced against his positive contributions.

By following these steps, you'll be able to examine Andrew Jackson's presidency more comprehensively and assess the reasons why some might consider him a good president.