10 Really Horrible Things Done By Great People

1. Andrew Jackson Practically Wiped Out An Entire Race Of People

Andrew Jackson was the seventh president of the United States. He began his life as a patriot, becoming a prisoner of war in the American revolution at the age of thirteen. Later on in the War of 1812, Jackson became a distinguished General and directly influenced the events that lead Florida's statehood. Jackson's presidency was characterized by his willful refusal to let any state secede from the union. He was a tall man with strong character, remembered for his bravery and unconquerable spirit. Also... He was a violent drinker with a scary temper. Jackson was often at odds with others, which he settled through dueling. Anyone who disagreed with him could find themselves challenged to a fight to the death. His number of duels left him with wounds that would cause him to cough up blood and often be sick while serving in office. When it came to the Native Americans, Jackson had only one policy: remove them. That translated to the forced immigration of Native Americans at the hands of the federal government. Thousands of Indians died in the process of what has become known as "The Trail of Tears." It wasn't the first time Jackson had used his power against the Native American tribes. Most of his military career was spent wiping them out in a series of campaigns referred to as the American Indian Wars. Today, very little remains of their proud people, but Jackson's face can be seen every time a $20 bill gets spent. It's odd, what history chooses to remember. Which other great men did bad things? Share your thoughts below in the comments thread below.