Banks closed in Philadelphia and New York City on May 10. This was the beginning of the Panic of 1837. The depression that followed would last throughout Van Buren's term.
From the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia, in addition to information on the Presidents themselves, they have first lady and cabinet member biographies, listings of presidential staff and advisers, and timelines detailing significant events in the lives of each administration.
Home of Van Buren from 1839, in Kinderhook, New York, which he named Lindenwald. Tourist information available.
Points of Interest:
2 Kindertree Drive, Kinderhook, New York
1013 Old Post Rd, Kinderhook, NY 12106
Additional Facts:
Van Buren was the first president born in the United States. All previous presidents were born before the United States became country, although all were born in places that would later be a part of the United States.
Van Buren resigned as Jackson's Secretary of State to quell a minor sex scandal.
His autobiography does not mention his wife once.
Van Buren took $100,000, the sum of his salary as president over four years, in a lump sum at the end of his term.
The term "O.K." was popularized because of Van Buren. Van Buren was from Kinderhook, New York, sometimes referred to as Old Kinderhook in speeches and print. O.K. Clubs soon formed to support Van Buren's campaign.
Van Buren made three unsuccessful bids for reelection.
Quotes:
“It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn’t.”
“As to the Presidency, the two happiest days of my life were those of my entrance upon the office and my surrender of it.”
“The less government interferes with private pursuits, the better for general prosperity.”
“The government should not be guided by Temporary Excitement, but by Sober Second Thought.”
Pres. Van Buren and the Origin of O.K. - a Presidential Story Ep. 34