Martin Van Buren was the eighth president of the United States, serving from 1837 to 1841. Born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York, he was a skilled politician and a key organizer of the Democratic Party. Before his presidency, Van Buren served as U.S. senator, governor of New York, and vice president under Andrew Jackson. His presidency faced economic challenges, including the Panic of 1837. After leaving office, he remained active in politics and ran for president again in 1848. He died on July 24, 1862.