1902-03 3¢ Jackson - U.S. #302

U.S. #302 - Series of 1902-03 3¢ Jackson

Issued on February 11, 1903, U.S. #302 commemorates the birthday of Andrew Jackson, born on March 15, 1767, in the Waxhaws area near the border of North and South Carolina.

Jackson's early life was marked by hardship and resilience. At the age of 13, he joined the American Revolution as a courier alongside his brother Robert. Captured by British troops, they endured severe hardships, including starvation and smallpox, before being released through their mother's negotiations. Tragically, within months of their release, both Jackson's mother and brother passed away, leaving him orphaned at just 14 years old. These experiences instilled in Jackson a deep-seated resentment toward the British that would shape his future actions.

Despite his tumultuous upbringing, Jackson's determination and intellect shone through. After brief stints as a saddle maker and teacher, he pursued a career in law, studying in North Carolina and eventually gaining admission to the bar in 1787. Jackson quickly established himself as a formidable frontier lawyer, known for his tenacity in cases involving land disputes, assaults, and battery. His legal prowess propelled him into roles of increasing importance, including serving as a delegate to the Tennessee constitutional convention, a U.S. Representative upon Tennessee's statehood, and later as a Tennessee Supreme Court Judge.

U.S. #302 serves as a tribute to Jackson's remarkable life and enduring legacy, capturing the spirit of resilience and determination that defined one of America's most influential leaders.