The Defense of Fort McHenry (The Star-Spangled Banner) During the War of 1812, a noted attorney named Francis Scott Key found himself in the midst of the British onslaught against Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor. After enduring nearly a full day of relentless shelling, Key was certain the British would capture the fort and raise the
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Tenskwatawa (The Prophet) (1775-1836) WHO HE WAS: Tenskwatawa, known as “The Prophet,” was a Shawnee religious leader and the brother of the renowned warrior and diplomat Tecumseh. His teachings and visions played a pivotal role in the cultural and political awakening of Native American tribes in the early 19th century. WHAT HE SAID: Reflecting his
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) WHO HE WAS: Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and one of the most influential Founding Fathers for his promotion of the ideals of republicanism in the United States. An advocate of democracy, individual rights, and education, Jefferson also made
The Louisiana Purchase Treaty Paris, France 30 April 1803 The Louisiana Purchase has been described as the greatest real estate deal in history. In 1803 the United States paid France $15 million for the Louisiana Territory—some 828,000 square miles of land west of the Mississippi River. The lands acquired stretched from the Mississippi River to
Even before consummating the Louisiana Purchase with France, President Jefferson laid plans to explore the region. In June 1803, he sent a letter to his personal secretary, Meriwether Lewis, who had recruited to lead the mission. The message lists many objectives for the expedition, but stresses economic, geopolitical, and scientific matters. Note in particular that the President
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In early 1796, President George Washington decided not to seek election to a third term as United States president. Later that year, his 32-page farewell address appeared in Philadelphia’s American Daily Advertiser. The outgoing president Washington urged Americans to avoid excessive political party spirit, geographical distinctions, and entanglements with foreign nations—issues that resonate today. President George Washington: Farewell
In November 1800, shortly after taking residence in the still-unfinished White House, Abigail Adams, wife of President John Adams, penned this intimate letter to her daughter, Abigail Smith. With vivid descriptions, she offers a unique window into the early days of America’s most iconic residence, sharing both its challenges and its potential. Abigail Adams: Letter
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Dolley Madison (1768-1849) WHO SHE WAS: Dolley Madison was an American socialite, wife of James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, and a notable figure in the early development of American politics. She is often remembered for her role in shaping the role of First Lady, her social graces, and for saving the
Oliver Hazard Perry (1785-1819) WHO HE WAS: Oliver Hazard Perry was a distinguished officer in the United States Navy, renowned for his heroic role in the War of 1812, especially during the Battle of Lake Erie. His leadership and naval tactics secured American control over the lake, bolstering the nation’s morale and influencing the outcome
John Calhoun (1782-1850) WHO HE WAS: John C. Calhoun was an American statesman and political theorist from South Carolina, serving as the seventh Vice President of the United States under two different presidents. He was also a senator, a secretary of war, and a secretary of state. Calhoun was an ardent defender of states’ rights
