Andrew Johnson
- Born:
- December 29, 1808, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
- Died:
- July 31, 1875, Carter's Station, Tennessee, United States
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Politician, Tailor
Early Life and Education
- Born into poverty in Raleigh, North Carolina.
- Apprenticed as a tailor at a young age.
- Largely self-educated.
- Moved to Greeneville, Tennessee, in 1826.
Career and Major Achievements
- Held various political positions at the local and state levels in Tennessee, including alderman, mayor, state representative, and state senator.
- Served as a U.S. Representative (1843-1853) and U.S. Senator (1857-1862) from Tennessee.
- Appointed Military Governor of Tennessee by President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.
- Elected Vice President of the United States in 1864.
- Became President of the United States following Lincoln's assassination in April 1865.
- Oversaw the early stages of Reconstruction following the Civil War.
- His vetoes of Reconstruction legislation led to conflict with the Radical Republicans in Congress.
- Subject to the president johnson impeachment trial by the House of Representatives in 1868. He was acquitted by the Senate.
- Served again as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee from March to July 1875.
Notable Works
- Speeches and public addresses relating to his political career and Reconstruction policies.
- His correspondence provides insight into his presidency and political views.
Legacy and Impact
Andrew Johnson's presidency remains highly controversial due to his Reconstruction policies and his impeachment. His actions significantly shaped the course of American Reconstruction, leading to deep divisions within the nation.