Executive Summary
On January 30, 1835, President Andrew Jackson became the first sitting U.S. president to experience an assassination attempt. Richard Lawrence, an unemployed house painter, approached Jackson outside the U.S. Capitol and attempted to shoot him with two pistols. Remarkably, both pistols misfired, leaving Jackson unharmed. The incident underscored both Jackson’s famously combative nature and the vulnerabilities of public figures in America.
Historical Background
Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States (1829–1837), was known for his populist policies and controversial decisions, including the dismantling of the Second Bank of the United States. His presidency polarized the nation and generated both fervent support and deep resentment.
Political and Social Context
Jackson’s presidency was marked by significant economic and social upheaval. His opposition to federal institutions like the national bank stirred anger among political adversaries. This intense opposition contributed to a volatile political atmosphere in Washington.
The Plot
Richard Lawrence believed himself to be the heir to the British throne and thought Jackson’s banking policies had personally harmed him. Driven by delusions of grandeur and paranoia, Lawrence saw assassinating Jackson as a way to remove obstacles to his imagined royal inheritance.
Timeline
- January 30, 1835: Jackson attends a congressional funeral at the Capitol.
- After the ceremony: Jackson exits through the East Portico, surrounded by a crowd.
- Lawrence approaches: Armed with two pistols, he fires twice at close range. Both pistols misfire.
The Assassination Attempt
As Jackson exited the Capitol, Lawrence stepped out from behind a pillar and aimed a pistol at Jackson, which failed to discharge. Without hesitation, Lawrence pulled a second pistol, which also misfired. President Jackson, notorious for his quick temper and toughness, reacted immediately by charging Lawrence and striking him with his cane. The 67-year-old president was quickly assisted by bystanders, including famed frontiersman and Congressman Davy Crockett, who subdued Lawrence.
Immediate Aftermath
Lawrence was promptly arrested. Public reaction was a mix of shock, relief, and admiration for Jackson’s bravery and swift reaction. The incident quickly became emblematic of Jackson’s rugged and confrontational reputation.
Investigation and Arrest
Upon examination, authorities determined Lawrence’s pistols were functional but had misfired due to humidity. Investigations concluded Lawrence was mentally unstable, not part of any larger conspiracy.
Trial and Legal Proceedings
Richard Lawrence was brought to trial, during which he displayed clear signs of mental illness, claiming himself to be royalty. After deliberation, the jury found Lawrence not guilty by reason of insanity.
Punishment and Legacy
Lawrence spent the remainder of his life confined to mental institutions. The assassination attempt elevated Jackson’s legendary status as a fearless leader, solidifying his public image. It also underscored the necessity of enhanced security measures for public officials, though significant reform would not occur until later.
Long-Term Impact
This event highlighted the personal risks faced by American presidents and eventually led to better security protocols for future presidents, albeit gradually.
Controversies and Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy theories regarding the pistols’ failure have surfaced occasionally, suggesting sabotage or divine intervention, though no credible evidence supports such claims.
Primary Source Appendix
- Newspaper accounts from January and February 1835
- Court transcripts from the trial of Richard Lawrence
- Personal accounts and letters from witnesses, including those by Davy Crockett