Rachel Jackson, born on June fifteenth, seventeen sixty-seven, was a prominent figure in American history, known primarily as the wife of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States. Their life together was marked by deep affection and partnership, as they resided at their beloved home, the Hermitage. Tragically, Rachel passed away just days after Andrew's election in eighteen twenty-eight, before he could be inaugurated, which meant she never had the opportunity to serve as First Lady. Instead, this role was assumed by her niece, Emily Donelson.
Before her marriage to Andrew, Rachel was wed to Lewis Robards in Nashville. In approximately seventeen ninety-one, she eloped with Andrew, mistakenly believing that her divorce had been finalized. However, it was later revealed that the divorce had not been secured, resulting in a bigamous marriage. The couple was compelled to remarry in seventeen ninety-four once the divorce was officially granted.
Rachel's relationship with Andrew was characterized by a profound bond, and she often experienced anxiety during his absences due to military or political duties. A devout Presbyterian, Rachel was known for her deep religious piety, which played a significant role in her life. During the contentious lead-up to the eighteen twenty-eight election, she became the target of vicious attacks from supporters of Andrew's opponent, John Quincy Adams. Andrew believed these personal assaults contributed to her declining health and ultimately her untimely death, leading him to blame his political adversaries for her suffering.