Marszalek's latest book attracts national attention

A veteran Mississippi State history professor recently appeared on Cable News Network to discuss his new book on "America's first political sex scandal."

Marszalek

John F. Marszalek was interviewed Jan. 16 on CNN's "Inside Politics" about "The Petticoat Affair: Manners, Mutiny and Sex in Andrew Jackson's White House." Published by The Free Press of New York, N.Y., the 320-page book deals with the scandals surrounding Margaret Eaton, wife of President Jackson's secretary of war, John Henry Eaton.

Jackson, America's seventh president, served two terms from 1829 to 1837. He is considered a founder of the modern Democratic Party.

Snubbed by 19th century Washington, D.C., society for perceived sexual improprieties, Mrs. Eaton had Jackson as one of her staunchest defenders. However, one of her biggest detractors was the wife of Vice President John C. Calhoun.

The bitter and escalating dispute led to a split between Jackson and Calhoun. Ultimately, Jackson forced the resignation of his entire cabinet, in the process nearly ruining his first term.

The interview for "Inside Politics" was taped Thursday afternoon at the University Television Center on campus.

Marszalek also taped a future segment of C-SPAN's "Booknotes." The hour-long program, which airs Sundays at 7 p.m. central standard time, features an interview and reading by a newly published author.

In addition, he taped a discussion of the book with conservative radio talk show host and Republican Party strategist Mary Matalin. Her nationally broadcast CBS Radio program is carried on most stations during the afternoon.

A Buffalo, N.Y., native, Marszalek is the author of several books dealing with the Civil War and civil rights. His 1992 book "Sherman: A Soldier's Passion for Order" was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. He joined the MSU faculty in 1973.