an old buddy of Jackson, lured Santa Anna, the Mexican president, to San Jacinto where he defeated him. Santa Anna let Texas secede from Mexico at the time, but you could see that he was not happy about it and that he wouldnt let them get away with it. Because of this, Texas wanted to join the United States. Jackson hesitated with his decision because of the growing northern opposition to the extension of slavery. But, on his last day in office, he recognized Texas independence, setting the stage for future annexation. Jackson gladly handed over his seat to his hand picked successor, Martin Van Buren.Andrew Jackson was a very controversial president. He used the presidential veto more than anybody ever has. Even after his presidency, Jackson still had an influence in Washington. For example, he played an important role in secret negotiations with Sam Houston to achieve the annexation of Texas. When Van Buren came out against the annexation, he said that Van Buren should be dumped as president. He then helped his friend James Polk win the presidency. So, as you can see, Jackson still had a major influence even after he retired. All of this ended in his bed on July 24, 1862. His last words were: I hope to see you all in heaven, both white and black, both white and black....
