EJECT THOSE RULERS WHO HAVE BROUGHT RUIN AFFLICTION UPON

Sale 2492 - Lot 118

Price Realized: $ 938

?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price

Estimate: $ 1,000 - $ 2,000

"EJECT . . . THOSE RULERS WHO HAVE BROUGHT RUIN & AFFLICTION UPON THE COUNTRY" HENRY CLAY. Letter Signed, "H. Clay," as Senator, to publisher George Getz, sympathizing with his decision not to publish Morning Star, expressing hope that the public's selection of leader does not lead to disruption, asserting that such selection is less important than ejecting those leaders causing damage to the country. 1 page, 4to; folds, minor smudging to few words. Washington, 21 April 1838

Set Alert for Similar Items

Additional Details

". . . On whomsoever public opinion may finally unite, whether it be myself or another, I sincerely hope that the harmony & concert, so essential to success, may not be disturbed. The great object should be to eject from the public councils those rulers who have brought ruin & affliction upon the country; & the selection of a person for that purpose should be regarded as a wholly subordinate question."

The Van Buren administration was widely blamed for the Panic of 1837, which brought about a years-long recession. In this letter, Clay is likely referring to the anticipated 1839 Whig National Convention, at which Clay hoped (in vain) to become the presidential candidate whose election would restore the country to health.

From the Collection of William Wheeler III.