Martin Van Buren: Our Eighth President

by Steven Ferry

A thorough, illustrated biography discussing the president's childhood, his career, his family, and his term as President of the United States. Includes a time line and glossary.

Genres: History, Biography

48 pages, Library Binding

First published August 1, 2001

Reviews

[Ann Keller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Concise account of the eighth President of the United States. Not many people remember Martin Van Buren among the list of Presidents. Van Buren grew up in a Dutch-speaking household in the Kinderhook area near the Hudson River, New York. "Little Mat", as he was called was not a large man. He barely topped five feet, six inches in height, but fathered six children. He adored opera and plays.

Van Buren shrewdly allowed others to voice their political views, while he listened attentively. He was one of the founders of the Democratic party and was a strong influence in the government of New York, as well. He was opposed to slavery and stood by his principles to the end, even though his opinions made him less popular.

[Emmy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very excited to read about Martin Van Buren since I knew nothing about him. It was interesting to see how much the Jackson presidency had shaped his own, and how Van Buren tended to be a man who kept his cards close to his chest. I was not expecting him to be considered "sneaky" and even "sly", and had a really interesting time learning about him.

[Jim Welke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Educational read. The book explores the life of our 8th President. He's given credit for building the first political machine. One term in office due to a failing economy.

[Shelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very informative non-fiction book for intermediate age students on up. Martin Van Buren is not a well-known president, but an interest man who stood by what he thought was right even when he was the only one standing. I would highly recommend any teacher or parent to read this series of presidential history books to their class/children in order. Each does a wonderful job expanding on its predecessor.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The “Red Fox of Kinderhook” and “the Little Magician” believed that states should have more power. He believed the U.S should remain neutral in disputes between other countries. He helped found the Democratic Party.