Henry Clay

Henry Clay was a 19th-century U.S. politician known as 'The Great Compromiser' for his skills of negotiation and compromise.

Political Figure

April 12, 1777

June 29, 1852

75

Henry Clay, a prominent 19th-century U.S. politician, earned the title “The Great Compromiser” for his exceptional negotiation and compromise skills. Serving in Congress and as Secretary of State under President John Quincy Adams, Clay played a crucial role in maintaining national unity during the first half of the 19th century. He adeptly addressed regionalism and balanced states’ rights with national interests. As a member of the Great Triumvirate, alongside John C. Calhoun and Daniel Webster, Clay held significant influence in American politics from 1828 to 1852. His funeral in 1852 was the largest ceremonial event ever witnessed in Lexington, Kentucky.