to Elisha R. Potter

Tyler, John, 1790-1862 to Elisha R. Potter

GLC01131

A high-resolution version of this object is only available for registered users - register here.

High-resolution images are also available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription or click here for more information.

GLC#
GLC01131
Type
Letters
Date
May 20, 1842
Author/Creator
Tyler, John, 1790-1862
Title
to Elisha R. Potter
Place Written
Washington, District of Columbia
Pagination
3 p. : Height: 26 cm, Width: 20 cm
Language
English
Primary time period
National Expansion and Reform, 1815-1860
Sub-Era
Age of Jackson

Written at the height of the Dorr controversy, when Thomas W. Dorr's followers who wanted to put a new Rhode Island state constitution in place to expand suffrage, illegally elected Dorr the governor. Tyler explains his response to the affair, his desire for amnesty, peace, and to undercut public sympathy for the Dorrites who invoked the right of rebellion. Concedes that "Dorr's recent proceedings have been so extravagant a character as allmost to extinguish the las hope of a peaceable result." Notes that the developments make it difficult for Rhode Island Governor Samuel Ward King to yield gracefully. The Dorr rebellion followed. Probably in the hand of one of Tyler's sons, John Jr. or Robert, who served as secretaries. Marked "private." Potter was a Rhode Island jurist and political leader.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources