Presidential candidate Henry Clay, having served as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives (from Kentucky), Secretary of State under John Quincy Adams and then US Senator from Kentucky; pens this important letter providing his insight into his campaign for U. President dated April 16, 1843. Running as the candidate for the Whig Party, Clay would lose a closely contested election to Democrat James K. Much of the election hung on the issue of the annexation of Texas and controversial issues of slavery. In his handwritten letter, Clay writes I have just received tidings of the Whig defeat in the land of steady habits. I had hoped for a different result. I perceive however that there is favorable reaction, but why were we not completely successful? Was it Tylerism, Websterism, Abolitionism, ? It is very mortifying that, in Massachusetts and in Connecticut, where I had supposed that the principal of protection of domestic industry had such firm roots, such influence, not to say hostility, is manifested to the good cause. Is it true that in fostering American labor, we are only establishing nurseries for Democrats? … 9.5 X 7.75. Very good-Fine condition with folds. Comes with a James Spence Authentication (JSA) Letter of Authenticity, and comments from original owner and transcription. The item “Important Handwritten Henry Clay 1844 Letter Re Presidential Campaign Vs. Polk” is in sale since Wednesday, May 5, 2021. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Autographs\Historical”. The seller is “erinbrookegallery” and is located in Bonita Springs, Florida. This item can be shipped to United States.

• Autograph Authentication: James Spence (JSA)