Meltzer's biographies always teach us as much about the history of the period as they do about his subject. His latest book is no exception. Readers will emerge with a multifaceted picture of Andrew Jackson--a wily land speculator but poor businessman, a politician who fought to preserve the Union but subverted the law when convenient, a gambler who loved horse racing, a doting husband, and a proponent of slavery. They will also come away with the understanding that Jackson was very much a product of his time and that he was willing to represent the people against the "rapacious moneyed aristocracy" as long as it suited his interests. Thoroughly covered are Jackson's role in and the conditions that led to such historic events as the Indian removal and the abolitionist movement, with Meltzer selecting and presenting all his information in a manner that is thoughtful, provocative, and very readable. Student researchers will appreciate Meltzer's source notes as well as his suggestions of other topics to explore. - from Amzon