Martin Van Buren was born on December 5, 1782 in Kinderhook, New York. His father was Abraham Van Buren and his mother was Maria Hoes Van Buren. He was the first President born in the United States. Van Buren graduated from Kinderhook Academy and served as our 8th President from March 4, 1837 to March 3, 1841. He failed in three attempts to be re-elected.

     Mr. Van Buren was a lawyer. He served as a New York State Senator, New York Attorney-General, United States Senator, Governor of New York, U.S. Secretary of State, U.S. Minister to England and Vice-President under President Andrew Jackson.

     Martin Van Buren married Hannah Hoes in 1807. They had four sons: Abraham, John, Martin and Smith. Mrs. Van Buren died in 1819, so when Mr. Van Buren became President he did not have a First Lady. He remained unmarried for the rest of his life.  In his autobiography, he never once mentioned his wife because, in his day, it was considered impolite to speak personally about any lady in a public forum. The term “O.K.” became popular because of President Van Buren. His hometown was referred to as “Old Kinderhook” and the people who supported his election formed political organizations known as “O.K. Clubs.” “O.K.” later caught on as a colloquial expression meaning: “All Right”.

     President Martin Van Buren died on July 24, 1862 at his home in Kinderhook, New York. He was 79 years old.

            

Biographical Sketch © 2002 Damon Leigh (ASCAP)

Presidential Portrait © 2002 Chas Fagan