Clay, Henry, 1777-1852 to John Switzer

GLC03725

A larger version of this object is available to teachers and students for free. Others can subscribe for $25/year.

Larger 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#
GLC03725
Type
Letters
Date
19 May 1831
Author/Creator
Clay, Henry, 1777-1852
Title
to John Switzer
Place Written
Kentucky
Pagination
1 p. : address Height: 25 cm, Width: 20.2 cm
Primary time period
National Expansion and Reform, 1815-1860
Sub-Era
Slavery & Anti-slavery

Written from Ashland, Clay's estate, to Switzer at Union Bridge, Frederick County, Maryland. Replying to a request from Switzer, Senator Clay discusses his opinions on colonization and slavery. Refers Switzer to an address he gave to the Colonization Society of Kentucky in 1829. Argues for leaving the decision of emancipation up to individual states. Attests that slavery can only be justified in America by necessity, if at all, and that Congress has no power to establish a system of emancipation.

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources

For reproductions and permissions, please visit our Rights and Reproductions Page.