The Code Duello

On May 30, 1806, a duel between Andrew Jackson and Charles Dickinson, two prominent figures of early 19th-century America, took place in Adairville, Kentucky. This confrontation was the culmination of personal insults, social rivalries, and intense enmity that had festered over time.

Andrew Jackson, a fierce and ambitious lawyer, was already known for his volatile temper and staunch defense of his honor. Born in 1767, Jackson was a veteran of the Revolutionary War and had established a reputation as a determined and often ruthless individual in legal and political circles in Tennessee.

Charles Dickinson, a respected horse breeder and lawyer, was known for his skill as a marksman. Born in 1780, Dickinson was 26 years old at the time of the duel, a man of refined demeanor but one who also carried a sharp tongue.

The conflict between Jackson and Dickinson was rooted in a series of disputes, both personal and professional. Jackson had married Rachel Donelson Robards in 1794, under controversial circumstances. Rachel had believed she was divorced from her first husband, Lewis Robards, but the divorce was not yet finalized, leading to accusations of bigamy. This aspect of Jackson’s personal life became a focal point for his enemies.

The enmity between Jackson and Dickinson escalated when Dickinson allegedly insulted Rachel’s honor, calling her a bigamist. Thomas Swann, a mutual acquaintance, attempted to mediate between the two men. He urged Jackson to consider reconciliation and avoid bloodshed. Jackson, however, was determined to defend his wife’s honor and refused to be placated by Swann’s attempts at mediation.

In 1806, Dickinson exacerbated the situation by publishing an article in a local newspaper, labeling Jackson a “poltroon and a coward.” This public insult was a direct attack on Jackson’s character, leaving him little choice but to respond to preserve his honor. Jackson issued a formal challenge to Dickinson, calling for a duel to settle the matter.

Dueling was illegal in Tennessee in 1806, reflecting the state’s efforts to curb the practice due to its violent nature and potential for social disruption. However, the law was rarely enforced, as societal norms often placed personal honor above legal restrictions. To circumvent the law, Jackson and Dickinson agreed to hold their duel in Kentucky, where the legal repercussions were less stringent.

Jackson, aware of Dickinson’s superior marksmanship, devised a strategic approach for the duel. He decided to let Dickinson fire first, intending to take his time to aim and ensure his own shot was fatal. This strategy was risky but demonstrated Jackson’s calculated resolve.

On the morning of May 30, 1806, the duel commenced. Dickinson fired first, hitting Jackson in the chest. The bullet shattered two ribs and lodged near Jackson’s heart. Despite the severe injury, Jackson stood his ground, took deliberate aim, and fired, killing Dickinson.

Jackson’s injury had long-term effects on his health. The bullet remained lodged near his heart for the rest of his life, causing chronic pain and health issues. Despite this, Jackson’s reputation was significantly bolstered by his demonstration of bravery and resilience.

Charles Dickinson was buried the day after the duel. His death left a lasting impact on his family and community, marking a tragic end to the rivalry.

The duel solidified Jackson’s reputation as a fearless and unyielding defender of his honor. Politically, it enhanced his image as a man of action and principle, which later contributed to his rise in American politics, ultimately leading to his presidency.

The Jackson-Dickinson duel of May 30, 1806, stands as a prominent example of the fading tradition of dueling in America. As the nation progressed, such violent means of resolving disputes became increasingly viewed as barbaric and counterproductive. The duel also highlighted the intense personal conflicts that could arise in the pursuit of honor and respect in the early 19th century.

This event, while a reflection of the era’s customs, also marked a turning point in public perception and the gradual decline of dueling as a socially accepted practice.