Solid biography of the first modern president. His criticism of Jackson's views on slavery seemed perfunctory at best, and had an obligatory feel about them. Meacham firmly took Jackson to task for his treatment and views of American Indians. But I found his larger view of the Jackson presidency as the first developments of the modern presidency, and the first openly political president, quite persuasive. The book reads well, and Meacham chops the book into very short segments, which makes it easier for someone like me, who typically only reads for pleasure a few minutes a night. I do strongly recommend this to anyone.