Why was Andrew Jackson known as the first modern president?
Jackson was considered the first modern president because he used the veto to stop Congress from passing laws he thought would hurt the common man. Until Jackson came into office, Congress did most of the policy work of the government. Jackson did not support the infrastructure idea of new roads, and Congress never passed enough money to fund it as Henry Clay had proposed. Jackson thought that the people had elected him and he would do what the people wanted. Jackson did not rely on his cabinet to advise him he used what was known as the "Kitchen Cabinet" which was composed of friends and political allies. Most presidents have had their personal set of advisers - right up until today.
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