Unlike other famously strong Presidents, Jackson defined himself not by
enacting a legislative program but by thwarting one. In eight years,
Congress passed only one major law, the Indian Removal Act of 1830, at
his behest. During this time Jackson vetoed twelve bills, more than his
six predecessors combined. One of these was the first "pocket veto" in
American history. The Maysville Road and Bank vetoes stood as enduring
statements of his political philosophy.his controversial conduct in office galvanized opponents to organize the Whig party. Jackson devised and implemented his policies through a private coterie
of advisers and publicists known as the "Kitchen Cabinet." His bold
initiatives and domineering style caused opponents to call him King
Andrew, and to take the name of Whigs to signify their opposition to
executive tyranny.
