Synopses & Reviews
An important new interpretation of Daniel Webster's life by an award-winning biographer.
In almost every respect, Daniel Webster was larger than life, an intellectual colossus, a statesman of the first rank, and a man of towering and finally unfulfilled ambition. In this new biography, Webster is seen as a major player in American politics in the era between the War of 1812 and the beginning of the Civil War, involved with every significant issue confronting the new nation. Webster had no equal as an orator, then or since. Whether in the Senate, before the Supreme Court, or on the political stump, he was a golden-tongued spellbinder, often holding audiences in thrall for hours. In his lifelong defense of the Constitution, and as a constant upholder of the Union, Webster won love and respect. He was often referred to as the Godlike Daniel. But he was also referred to as Black Dan because of his questionable dealings with men of wealth and power, his political conniving, his habitual nonpayment of debts, and perhaps even his somewhat roving eye.
This full life gives us Webster the public man as well as Webster the private worrier -- worried about his home and land, particularly his beloved marsh field, his family, and, above all, his place in history. This biography truly illuminates the era in which he lived.
-- Splendidly researched, vividly written, and generally compelling.... Remini recounts with verve and surprisingly fresh insight the familiar events of Clay's long career. -- Michael F. Holt, Chicago Sun-Times
-- Powerful.... A lucid, dramatic revelation of a forgotten giant of American history. -- Brian Richard Boyland, Los Angeles Times Book Review
Synopsis
In this monumental new biography, Robert V. Remini gives us a full life of Webster from his birth, early schooling, and rapid rise as a lawyer and politician in New Hampshire to his equally successful career in Massachusetts where he moved in 1816. Remini treats both the man and his time as they tangle in issues such as westward expansion, growth of democracy, market revolution, slavery and abolitionism, the National Bank, and tariff issues. Webster's famous speeches are fully discussed as are his relations with the other two of the "great triumvirate," Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun. Throughout, Remini pays close attention to Webster's personal life--perhaps more than Webster would have liked--his relationships with family and friends, and his murky financial dealings with men of wealth and influence.
Synopsis
"Robert V. Remini's splendid biography of Daniel Webster completes his triptych of the three men who dominated American politics in the first half of the nineteenth century. In a work that matches his earlier fine portraits of Andrew Jackson and Henry Clay, he brings Webster to vigorous and poignant life, a man massive in his power, massive in his frustrations and faults, massive in his impact on his times." --Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.
About the Author
Robert V. Remini is professor of history and research professor of humanities at the University of Illinois in Chicago.