"It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes. Distinctions in society will always exist under every just government. Equality of talents, of education, or of wealth can not be produced by human institutions."
— Andrew Jackson, Bank Veto Message, 1832
In July 1832 Jackson vetoed the bill rechartering the Second Bank of the United States and sent Congress a message explaining himself. It remains one of the few presidential veto messages in American history that argues economics rather than procedure.
His objection was not to inequality, which he took to be a permanent feature of any free society. It was to a government that manufactures inequality by granting privileges — a charter, a monopoly, an exclusive right to hold the public deposits — to those who already hold the most.
Specifications
11 oz ceramic, glossy white finish
Pencil-sketch portrait, printed both sides
Dishwasher and microwave safe
Printed on demand and shipped on fulfillment
The Bank did not survive. The mug is dishwasher safe.
