If you are in favor of a pro-active President & a stronger executive branch, you need to find room for Andrew Jackson the "good" list someplace. As Meecham (sp?) points out in his recent book, Jackson did MUCH to shape the modern presidency. He was the first President to use the veto power to influence/control the legislative agenda. He "stared down" South Carolina on the question of nullification. He had a reputation of being a "madman with his finger on the button" (a la Nixon) but it was often an act that was a prelude to compromise.
His policy regarding the "indigenous peoples" (read, American Indian) was appalling & his clash with Biddle over the National Bank may have been counter-productive. However, even when doing something "bad" he established the principle of executive action.
As for the "bad" list... it's just TOO easy. So MANY clowns, so LITTLE time... :P
