Who is on the 20 dollar bill?

Ever taken a good look at that $20 bill in your wallet? It's more than just a piece of currency. It tells a story, a piece of history you carry around daily. Let's dive into the tale behind the face on your $20 bill.

The face: Andrew Jackson

The man you see on the $20 bill is none other than Andrew Jackson. He was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837. His leadership during a period of significant change left a lasting impact on the nation.

Why him?

Jackson fought for the rights of the "common man" against what he saw as a corrupt aristocracy. This made him popular among many Americans, which led to his image being placed on our currency. Ironically, Jackson didn't agree with the idea of a federal banking system or paper money.

The timeline

In 1928, Jackson's portrait first appeared on the $20 bill, replacing Grover Cleveland. It has remained there ever since, with a few minor changes to the design. However, in April 2016, it was announced that famed abolitionist and suffragette Harriet Tubman would replace Jackson on the face of the $20 bill. Initially, the new $20 bills were set to be unveiled in 2020, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment granting voting rights to women. However, the Harriet Tubman $20 bill will likely not be in circulation until 2030. 

Set kids up for success.

Set kids up for success.

Teach them smart financial lessons for life with Greenlight’s award-winning educational money app.

Try Greenlight today

Controversy

Many have argued that Andrew Jackson's legacy, including his appearance on the $20 bill, is tainted by his controversial policies. For example, he was a fierce defender of slavery and enacted legislation that forcibly displaced 50,000 Native Americans and led to the deadly “Trail of Tears.” These events have sparked much debate about whether or not Jackson deserves to be on the $20 bill.

A call for change

Many calls have been made to replace Jackson's image on the $20 bill with a more diverse and inclusive figure. While the move to put Harriet Tubman on the front of the bill also has its detractors, the change would mark the first time a Black American has ever appeared on U.S. paper currency. These ongoing discussions highlight the importance of recognizing and representing different voices in our nation's history. 

FAQs about the $20 bill

Q: Who is Andrew Jackson?

A: He was the seventh President of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837, and his portrait is currently featured on the $20 bill.

Q: Why is Andrew Jackson featured on the $20 bill?

A: Jackson was chosen to appear on the bill due to his advocacy for the rights of the "common man" against perceived corrupt aristocracy. This made him popular among many Americans.

Q: Are there plans to change the face on the $20 bill?

A: Indeed, there are plans to replace Jackson's portrait with that of Harriet Tubman, a pivotal figure in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad.

Q: Who decided to put Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill?

A: The U.S. Department of the Treasury made the decision.

Q: When did Andrew Jackson first appear on the $20 bill?

A: His portrait was added to the $20 bill back in 1928.

Q: Why is there a discussion about changing the face on the $20 bill?

A: The debate comes from differing views about whether it's fitting to continue honoring Jackson and also from broader conversations about representation on U.S. currency.

Q: Who was on the $20 bill before Andrew Jackson?

A: Grover Cleveland was the figure on the $20 bill before Jackson.

Q: What does the number 20 on the bill represent?

A: The number 20 signifies the bill's denomination or value in dollars.

Q: Are all $20 bills the same size?

A: All U.S. paper currency shares the same dimensions, regardless of denomination.

Q: What color is the $20 bill?

A: The $20 bill is primarily green and peach with subtle accents of blue.

Final thoughts

Regardless of the debates surrounding his legacy, Andrew Jackson remains the face on the $20 bill for now. But next time you pull one out of your wallet, remember the man and the complex history behind that piece of paper. It's not just money; it's a symbol of our past and present. 

For more helpful tips, visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.