The word “Okay” or “OK” became popular when it was used in Van Buren’s campaign. It stood for one of his nicknames “Old Kinderhook”.
Martin grew up in Kinderhook, New York where his father was a tavern owner and farmer. His family primarily spoke Dutch at home. Martin was intelligent, but only received a formal education to the age of 14. He learned law by working and apprenticing for attorneys in New York. In 1803 he passed the bar and became a lawyer. Martin became involved in politics at a young age. When he was just 17 he attended his first political convention. He became attracted to politics and soon entered political office himself.
Van Buren became a key player in New York state politics. Many considered him a master manipulator of “machine politics”. He also helped to start another political tool called the “spoils system”. This was where supporters of a candidate would receive good jobs in the government as a reward when their candidate won. In 1815, Van Buren became the New York Attorney General. He then was elected to the U.S. Senate representing New York. He was a strong supporter of Andrew Jackson during this time, helping him in the north during the presidential election. After Jackson was elected, Van Buren became his Secretary of State. Due to some scandals, Van Buren resigned as Secretary of State in 1831. However, he remained loyal to President Andrew Jackson. When Jackson found that his current Vice President, John Calhoun, was disloyal, he picked Van Buren as his Vice President for his second term.
Credit : Ducksters
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