Andrew Jackson: Enriched Argumentative Essay
QUESTION: Some historians portray Andrew Jackson as heroic and the champion of the democracy and the common man. Others claim that Jackson was an autocrat (a person who rules with total power) and an ill-tempered personality who had little sincere regard for the interests of the American people. Which image of Jackson comes closer to being correct? Why?
Overview: You will write an extended argumentative essay. It will have the typical 5 paragraphs of an argumentative essay, plus at least 3 paragraphs that review the 3 major issues of Jackson’s presidency: the bank, Indian removal and the Nullification Crisis of 1833.
- Introduction must have the 4 elements: 1) Hook, 2) background, 3) arguments and counter argument, 4) claim.
- The hook may be a properly constructed quote, or it can be an anecdote.
- Extension: Paragraph 2 will introduce the 3 major issues. You can include the first issue in paragraph two, or you may write a paragraph that introduces the 3 issues and places them in the context of his presidency. Paragraphs 3 and 4 must review the other two issues.
- Extension: For each of the issues you need to do 3 things: describe the background of the issue, the conflict or problem, and how Jackson resolved the issue.
- If you like, you may use subheadings before paragraph 2, and before you return to the argument.
- Return to the argumentative essay: Body paragraphs 5 and 6 are arguments. Each argument must be supported by at least three facts, pieces of evidence, reasons, or quotes. Be detailed and specific.
- Body paragraph 7 must be to acknowledge and refute a counter claim. The counter claim must give one argument and 1 piece of evidence (facts, pieces of evidence, reasons, or quotes) and then the refute must contain 2 pieces of evidence that refutes the counter argument.
- Paragraph 8 is the conclusion. Your conclusion must do three things: 1) make a connection to the introduction hook, 2) summarize your arguments in a general and broad way, and 3) a closing point that makes a deeper connection to history or the present day.
What to do and what not to do:
- Do not use any personal pronouns (I, me, my mine, you, etc.)
- You need 3 quotes – no more than 5 and only one per paragraph.
- Use clear transition words to link reasons and to switch between paragraphs.
- The first time an individual’s name is used include the first and last name: “Thomas Jefferson wrote . . .” After that, ONLY the last name is used: “Jefferson noted . . .”
- Try to vary sentence lengths. Long sentences convey information and express detail. Short sentences are used for emphasis or to make a point.
- Use transition words or phrases at the beginning of paragraphs (see list of transitions).
- Each paragraph focuses on one reason or topic. The first and last sentences in a paragraph should tie the reason or topic back to the claim
- Be sure there is at least one paragraph break per page. Each paragraph should be indented five letter spaces.
- Use spell-check and proofread for repetitions, spelling, and grammar errors.
- All written pieces are double-spaced with one-inch margins (in Times/Times New Roman 12 pt. type
Useful Links:
Timeline of Events
Quotes by Jackson
Jackson's First Inauguration Speech
Refer to Twelve Rules for writing a formal paper.
Use complete sentences. Remember to be specific and detailed. Also, do not use any personal pronouns (I, me, my mine, you, etc.).