Stephen A. Douglas (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1920 edition. Excerpt: ...in the hands of the slaveholders; and even New York ready to howl at my heels if I were only to name the name of freedom, which they once loved so much." Wade may well have asked whether freedom or slavery was to be national. Certain it is that during the Pierce administration the nation sank to the lowest level it ever touched, except under Buchanan. Whatever may have been the purpose of the President, his policy clearly indicated that he was firm in the belief that the Union could be saved only by a surrender to slavery. The surrender was made, but the Union was not saved by any such means. Nevertheless, the political situation was, from the Democratic point of view, all that could have been desired. The party was strongly intrenched in the confidence of the people. It had administered the affairs of the country for many years, with only two interregnums. By many it was looked on as the only true national party. Every one wished the new administration well. "The prosperity," says William Henry Smith, "everywhere prevalent, the marvellous growth of new communities, the absorption of thought and energy in the development of agriculture, commerce, and mining, rendered the people indifferent to the discussion of political subjects. They confidently looked to the President for a continuance of good times, and would most cordially give support to a policy having for its purpose the promotion of pure Democratic principles in the practical administration of the business affairs of the government. The winning manners of the President insured the good-will of those who had intercourse with him. He was fortunate also in having the support of both Houses of Congress by decided majorities, as it was, therefore, possible to carry...