The Eaton Affair

One controversial event clearly demonstrated Andrew Jackson’s support for the common people and it came to be known as the Eaton Affair(1831). Since Jackson was single and not wed, the First Lady position needed to be filled in. The duties of the First Lady included arranging White House parties and being the hostess. Jackson appointed Peggy Eaton as the First Lady. She was not born from wealth, but she was a former tavern hostess. Because of Peggy’s low status, the vice presidents John Calhoun refuse to accept her. Calhoun demanded his wife serve as the First Lady instead, but Jackson threaten Calhoun with blackmail if he continues to denounce Eaton.