Andrew Johnson

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Andrew Johnson

Andrew Johnson (December 29, 1808 – July 31, 1875) was the 17th President of the United States, serving from 1865 to 1869. He assumed the presidency as he was Vice President of the United States at the time of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Johnson was a Democrat who ran with Lincoln on the National Union ticket, coming to office as the Civil War concluded. He favored quick restoration of the seceded states to the Union. His plans did not give protection to the former slaves, and he came into conflict with the Republican-dominated Congress, culminating in his impeachment by the House of Representatives. He was acquitted by the Senate.

Early Life

Andrew Johnson was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, and apprenticed as a tailor. He moved to Greeneville, Tennessee, where he established a successful tailoring business. His entrance into politics saw him elected as alderman and then mayor of Greeneville. Johnson rose through the political ranks in Tennessee, serving in the Tennessee House of Representatives and the United States House of Representatives, before becoming Governor of Tennessee and eventually a U.S. Senator.

Presidency

Johnson's presidency is notable for his attempts to quickly reintegrate the Southern states following the Civil War. His lenient Reconstruction policies, however, angered the Radical Republicans in Congress and led to a major conflict between the executive and legislative branches. One of the most contentious issues was the treatment of freed slaves and the passage of the Black Codes, laws passed by Southern states that severely restricted African Americans' rights.

Impeachment

The conflict between Johnson and Congress culminated in his impeachment in 1868, making him the first American president to be impeached. The primary charge against him was his violation of the Tenure of Office Act, enacted by Congress over his veto, which restricted the power of the president to remove certain office-holders without the Senate's approval. Johnson was acquitted by one vote in the Senate, thus avoiding removal from office.

Later Life and Legacy

After his presidency, Johnson returned to Tennessee and was later elected to the U.S. Senate, making him the only former president to serve in the Senate. He died in 1875 in Carter County, Tennessee.

Johnson's legacy is mixed. He is often criticized for his approach to Reconstruction and his failure to protect the rights of the newly freed slaves. However, some historians argue that his policies were a continuation of Lincoln's intentions for a swift reunification of the country. 0