- This event has passed.
On this day in 1782, 8th president Martin Van Buren was born in Kinderhook, New York
December 5, 2023
An event every year that begins at 12:00 am on day 5 of December, repeating indefinitely
On this day in 1782, 8th president Martin Van Buren was born in Kinderhook, New York. He was the first president born a U.S. citizen (as opposed to a British subject).
In many ways, Van Buren was a successor to Andrew Jackson, retaining Jackson’s entire cabinet and adhering to many of his predecessor’s policies. His time in office was marred by an economic panic in 1837, the worst depression in the young nation’s history, and war with Native Americans in the South.
Did you know? Van Buren came from a modest backdrop, the son of a tavernkeeper and farmer. Despite this, Van Buren still had ample opportunity to learn about politics. His father’s tavern and inn, partway between Albany and New York City served as a hub of political discussion, and guests at the tavern included Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and Aaron Burr.
Van Buren’s nickname, “The Little Magician,” came from his short stature and political prowess.
Martin Van Buren, George Peter Alexander Healy, 1858
