Chapter 6 Summary and Analysis

"Republicans and Revolutionaries" examines the beginnings of Jackson's political career. When Congress creates the Southwest Territory, Jackson loses his job, but Gov. William Blount names him district attorney. Jackson's official duties are light, so he takes on clients, bartering for his fees in a cash-poor region. Jackson also sells diverse merchandise through Samuel Donelson's store, and speculates in land that he receives for legal services. In 1794/95, he partners with Overton, visits Philadelphia, and is swindled by savvy merchant David Allison. He avoids debtors' prison by selling the store and stock. Jackson also buys and sells slaves, the first in exchange for legal services, two others through his father-in-law's estate, and many are attached to lands that he purchases. He doubtless accepts that the Bible allows forced labor.

The summer of 1789 brings the overthrow of French King Louis XVI, and as fighting...