Description:

Letter signed by John C. Calhoun (1782-1850), comprising a print of Calhoun and a 3 page letter in Calhoun's hand copying a letter by General Wadsworth written in 1812 asking for his War expense, with label describing Calhoun's background and the contents of the letter as follows 'John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) SC Statesman and attorney. Calhoun was a US Congressman from his native SC (1811-17) when he and Henry Clay, as leaders of the "War Hawks", pressed Congress to declare war on Britain in 1812. He served as Secretary of War (1817-25) under President Monroe. Calhoun developed the political philosophy of States Rights, through which the South attempted to maintain its power prior to the Civil War. In 1824 Calhoun, as Secretary of War signed this official copy of an 1812 letter from General Wadsworth to Secretary of War Eustis during the War of 1812. One might assume that in 1824 poor General Wadsworth was still trying to collect his expenses from the war. An excellent example from a great history maker and favorite son of the South.'

Measurements: Height: of letter by sight 9 in. x Width: 7 1/4 in.

Poor condition. First and Second pages of the letter in double glazed frame with crease marks and some toning, third page with signature now loose and in 3 pieces. Print of Calhoun lacking frame and with foxing throughout.

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