Davis, Jefferson (1808-1889) to Nahum Capen
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05508.083 Author/Creator: Davis, Jefferson (1808-1889) Place Written: Biloxi, Mississippi Type: Letter Date: 22 November [1880] Pagination: 3 p. ; 15.2 x 29 cm Order a Copy
Written and signed by Varina Davis, for her husband. Discusses the founding and failure of the "first Confederacy" and the "dispersion of His chosen people." Davis argues that if their example had been followed, perhaps there would not have been a Civil War. He hopes that the Union can be returned to its founding principles but fears the nation has become "an example to be avoided not followed." Davis then questions the presidential candidacy of James A. Garfield, citing that he is charged with "an offence, an indictment for which could only be successfully answered by pleading the Statue of Limitations." Written at Davis's home, Beauvoir.
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