AMERICA'S SILVER AGE: The Statecraft of Clay, Webster and Calhoun

Clay, Calhoun and Webster, a trio the like of which has rarely been known, powers in their individual ways and collectively swaying the affairs of the nation at a critical period, that leading up to the Civil War. At times they were swayed by true patriotism, at times they were sincere diplomats; at other times, they were merely cheap politicians, with one common goal, the White House, which none of them attained. The picture of Clay is the most interesting, showing his many sidedness; that of Webster somewhat shadowy and unreal; of Calhoun clear cut and interesting. Not top notch, but useful. These glimpses of Jackson suggest the source of his power.