Martin Van Buren and the Making of the Democratic Party

Henry Clay and the Supreme Court

“…Madison sent him as part of the American contingent to negotiate a peace treaty with the British. 60 Despite frequent outbursts between Quincy Adams and Clay, and despite Clay's occasional outlandishly petty behavior, the contingent managed to negotiate the Treaty of Ghent, which, as Clay explained, "certainly reflect[ed] no dishonor on us." 61 Amidst fervid patriotism, the next political battle Clay faced dealt with an old issue: the national bank.…”

“…In part, this is likely attributable to his disdain at not being chosen Secretary of State. 63 When Speaker Clay became vindictive, little in his path was spared. In delivering a speech harshly criticizing Jackson's military exploits against the Indians in the Southeastern colonies, Clay received shouts, applause, and days of praise after "one of the ablest speeches ever delivered in the House."…”

“…65 He steadfastly believed that slaves should be slowly emancipated and recolonized in Africa. 66 These are views he had his entire political career, and they likely stemmed from the influence of Wythe, Madison, and Jefferson. 67 After a three-year retirement from political life, during which Clay worked to improve his finances, he returned to Congress in 1823.…”

“…67 After a three-year retirement from political life, during which Clay worked to improve his finances, he returned to Congress in 1823. 68 His time away from Congress was spent bolstering his legal practice and securing for him some cases that he would argue in the U.S. Supreme Court. 69 But that was not Clay's primary focus.…”

“…Immediately after the election, Adams offered Clay the position of Secretary of State. 73 The political scene roared with accusations of a corrupt bargain between Adams and Clay. 74 Clay's countermajoritarian vote for Adams, coupled with talks of his conspiracy, would plague him the rest of his life.…”