James M. Bradley

James M. Bradley, a historian and biographer of Martin Van Buren, dives into the intricate world of 19th-century American politics. He discusses Van Buren's embrace of political parties as vital democratic institutions and reflects on the chaos of the 1824 election. Bradley elaborates on Van Buren's uneasy alliance with Andrew Jackson and examines how his caution on issues like Texas annexation shaped his legacy. Additionally, they explore the Free Soil Movement and assess the modern weaknesses of political parties, pondering how Van Buren might respond to today's political landscape.