Jackson, then twenty-nine, was defeated for the post of Major General of the Militia through the influence which Sevier exercised against him, and it seems that Jackson never forgave this opposition to his ambitions.

By the close of Sevier's third term, however, in 1802, when Archibald Roane became Governor, the post of Major General was again vacant.

Both Sevier and Jackson offered themselves for it, and Jackson was elected by the deciding vote of the Governor, the military vote having resulted in a tie.

A strong current of influence had now set in against Sevier and involved charges against his honor.

His old enemy Tipton was still active.