Should Andrew Jackson Be on the $20 Bill Essay: A Debate Over Currency and Legacy

Should Andrew Jackson Be on the $20 Bill Essay: A Debate Over Currency and Legacy

The question of whether Andrew Jackson should remain on the $20 bill is a complex and multifaceted issue that intertwines history, politics, and cultural values. Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, is a figure of both admiration and controversy. His legacy is marked by significant achievements, such as his role in expanding democracy and his military prowess, but it is also tarnished by his policies toward Native Americans and his support for slavery. This essay will explore the arguments for and against Jackson’s presence on the $20 bill, examining his historical impact, the symbolism of currency, and the evolving values of American society.

The Case for Andrew Jackson on the $20 Bill

1. Historical Significance

Andrew Jackson is often celebrated as a champion of the common man. His presidency marked a shift toward greater democratic participation, as he advocated for the expansion of voting rights to all white men, regardless of property ownership. This was a significant step toward the more inclusive democracy we know today. Jackson’s military achievements, particularly his victory at the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, also cemented his status as a national hero. His leadership during this time helped solidify American independence and pride.

2. Symbol of American Resilience

Jackson’s life story is one of resilience and determination. Born into poverty, he rose to become one of the most influential figures in American history. His journey from humble beginnings to the presidency embodies the American Dream, making him a fitting symbol for the $20 bill, a currency often associated with everyday transactions and the working class.

3. Preservation of History

Removing Jackson from the $20 bill could be seen as an attempt to erase or rewrite history. While his actions toward Native Americans, particularly the Trail of Tears, are indefensible, they are an integral part of American history. Keeping Jackson on the bill serves as a reminder of the complexities of the past and the need to learn from it.

The Case Against Andrew Jackson on the $20 Bill

1. Treatment of Native Americans

One of the most significant criticisms of Jackson is his role in the forced removal of Native Americans from their ancestral lands. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the Trail of Tears, a tragic event that resulted in the deaths of thousands of Native Americans. This policy is a dark stain on Jackson’s legacy and raises questions about whether he should be honored on U.S. currency.

2. Support for Slavery

Jackson was a slaveholder and a staunch defender of the institution of slavery. His policies and actions perpetuated the systemic oppression of African Americans, which is at odds with the values of equality and justice that the United States strives to uphold today. For many, this makes him an inappropriate figure to represent the nation on its currency.

3. Evolving Values

As society evolves, so too do its values and the symbols it chooses to honor. The push to replace Jackson on the $20 bill with Harriet Tubman, an abolitionist and advocate for women’s rights, reflects a desire to celebrate figures who embody the principles of equality and justice. Tubman’s inclusion would send a powerful message about the kind of society the United States aspires to be.

The Middle Ground: Acknowledging Complexity

1. Dual Representation

One potential compromise is to feature both Jackson and Tubman on the $20 bill. This approach would acknowledge Jackson’s historical significance while also honoring Tubman’s contributions to the fight for freedom and equality. It would serve as a reminder that history is not black and white, but rather a tapestry of complex and often contradictory narratives.

2. Educational Initiatives

Another approach is to use the debate over Jackson’s place on the $20 bill as an opportunity for education. By incorporating discussions about Jackson’s legacy into school curricula and public discourse, we can foster a deeper understanding of the complexities of American history. This would encourage critical thinking and a more nuanced appreciation of the figures who have shaped the nation.

Conclusion

The question of whether Andrew Jackson should remain on the $20 bill is not one that can be answered easily. It requires a careful consideration of his historical impact, the values we wish to uphold as a society, and the role of currency as a symbol of national identity. While Jackson’s contributions to American democracy and his embodiment of the American Dream are undeniable, his treatment of Native Americans and his support for slavery cannot be overlooked. Ultimately, the decision to keep or replace Jackson on the $20 bill will reflect the values and priorities of the American people, serving as a testament to how we choose to remember and honor our past.

  1. Why was Andrew Jackson chosen to be on the $20 bill in the first place?

    • Andrew Jackson was placed on the $20 bill in 1928, largely due to his popularity as a president and his role in expanding democracy. His image was seen as a symbol of American resilience and determination.

  2. Who is Harriet Tubman, and why is she being considered for the $20 bill?

    • Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist and political activist who played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom. She is being considered for the $20 bill as a symbol of courage, freedom, and equality.

  3. What is the Trail of Tears, and why is it significant in the debate over Jackson’s legacy?

    • The Trail of Tears refers to the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to areas west of the Mississippi River. This event, which resulted in the deaths of thousands, is a major point of criticism against Jackson and a key factor in the debate over his place on the $20 bill.

  4. How does currency reflect a nation’s values?

    • Currency often features images of historical figures, landmarks, or symbols that represent a nation’s history, culture, and values. The choice of who or what to feature on currency can reflect what a society chooses to honor and remember.