Final answer:
Major General Andrew Jackson, known as "Old Hickory," successfully defended the port of New Orleans against the British on January 8, 1815. Despite the Treaty of Ghent ending the War of 1812, Jackson's well-prepared defenses led to a decisive American victory, securing the Mississippi River Valley for the United States.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual who held the British off at the Battle of New Orleans and was known as "Old Hickory" is Major General Andrew Jackson. His resilient nature and resourcefulness in leading his troops earned him this nickname, a reference to the tough hickory tree. Jackson's decisive actions during the Battle of New Orleans brought him to national prominence, and his success in the war furthered his political career, ultimately leading to him being the head of the new Democratic Party.
The Battle of New Orleans was a significant event, taking place on January 8, 1815, after the Treaty of Ghent had ostensibly ended the War of 1812. Despite this, slow communication meant the battle went ahead, resulting in a resounding American victory under Jackson’s leadership. The British force, comprising veterans of the Napoleonic Wars, sought to take the strategic port, but Jackson's well-prepared defenses and tactical prowess led to a devastating British defeat, reinforcing American control over the Mississippi River Valley. The battle ensured the future of American settlement and commerce in the region.