Henry Clay: America's Leader
By: Justin G.
Background Information
One of the most interesting leaders of all time, Henry Clay was an amazing person. Whether it was in the court, or in office, Clay was one of the most influential people of all time. He was a very large political figure, who served in many governmental positions throughout his career. He served in the senate, the house, and was vice president.
"There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right in America."-Henry Clay
Politics
Leader of the Whig party, Henry Clay played a large role on the stage of national politics for over forty years. He was secretary of state during John Quincy Adams's term, Speaker of the House of Representatives longer than anyone else in the nineteenth century, and the most influential member of the Senate during its prime. If it weren't for his views, we can only assume that he would've become president. He formed the Whig party in opposition to the Democratic Party.
Henry Clay
Henry Clay in a photograph
Compromise of 1850
One of the most important documents Clay wrote
Whig Party
A ballot for the Whig Party
War
When he was Speaker of the House in 1812, he was a "Warhawk," or one who thought it was necessary to go to war against Britain. Clay also served as a leading figure in the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the war. Even though he was a slaveholder, he was against slavery. He was one of the most beloved figures ever, for his unique views, and roles he played.
"I would rather be right than president," -Clay after losing in the Presidential Race
Impact on Society
Even today, many people know who Henry Clay is, and the impact he left. He had many huge effects that were remembered throughout history, and people such as Abraham Lincoln looked up to him. Henry Clay is a very interesting political figure, whether in his time, or in the present.
More info on Clay
Here are some other accomplishments throughout his career.