History Daily The Attempted Assassination of Andrew Jackson
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Jan 30, 2026 A 1835 assassination attempt on Andrew Jackson and the baffling misfire of both pistols. The would-be assassin's delusions and claims of being King Richard III. Political fallout as factions and newspapers blame rivals. Medical exams, pistol tests by Francis Scott Key, and a trial that ends with an insanity verdict.
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Failed Assassination At The Capitol
- Richard Lawrence waited in a paint shop, loaded two pistols, and followed Andrew Jackson to the Capitol on January 30, 1835.
- Both pistols miraculously misfired and Jackson personally attacked Lawrence with his cane before the crowd subdued him.
Polarized Capital Spurs Conspiracy
- Washington was deeply polarized during Jackson's presidency, fueling conspiracy theories after the shooting.
- The city immediately split into rival narratives blaming political enemies or staging by Jacksonians.
Media Spins Competing Theories
- Newspapers and politicians traded accusations linking Senator George Poindexter or Martin Van Buren to the attempt.
- Both pro- and anti-Jackson papers suggested either a hired assassin or a staged attack to manipulate public opinion.
