Daniel Webster

Description: (Former United States Senator)

Daniel Webster was a renowned American Senator and politician. Famous for his gift of the gab ability, he vehemently criticised the War of 1812 and the violation of New England’s shipping rights at a public speech. Moreover, this speech was also his protest against the extremism of New Englanders who supported the idea of the region’s secession from the Union. As a member of the House of Representative, he openly criticised President James Madison’s administrative and wartime policies. He expressed his disapproval of the ‘tariff of 1816’ and ‘American System’, an economic plan of House Speaker Henry Clay. Based on his briefs, John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States gave several court decisions. Apart from that, he also interpreted matters of constitutional law to a number of justices. All these activities earned him the name of the Great Expounder of the Constitution. During his tenure as the Secretary of State, he was a key supporter of “Jury nullification” law about which he stated in his famous “Seventh of March” speech. It was Webster who, as chief American diplomat, wrote the Hulsemann Letter by defending America’s right to participate in the internal politics of Hungary.He was a strong supporter of the idea of the establishment of commercial relations with Japan.

Overview

Birthday January 18, 1782 (Capricorn)
Died on October 24, 1852
Spouse/Ex- Caroline LeRoy Webster (m. 1829), Grace Fletcher (m. 1808–1828)
Parents Ebenezer Webster
Abigail Webster
Children Fletcher Webster
Relatives Ezekiel

Did you know

When did Daniel Webster serve as Secretary of State? Daniel Webster served as Secretary of State under Presidents William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, and Millard Fillmore from 1841 to 1843 and again from 1850 to 1852.
What was Daniel Webster's stance on the issue of slavery? Daniel Webster was known for his shifting views on slavery. While he initially supported compromises to maintain the Union, he later became a staunch supporter of the abolitionist cause.
What was Daniel Webster's role in the landmark Supreme Court case, Worcester v. Georgia? Daniel Webster argued on behalf of the Cherokee Nation in the case of Worcester v. Georgia, advocating for Native American rights and challenging the state of Georgia's authority over indigenous lands.
What were some of the key legislative accomplishments of Daniel Webster? Daniel Webster played a significant role in shaping American foreign policy, advocating for protective tariffs, and promoting infrastructure development, including the construction of roads and canals.
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