Historians David and Jeanne Heidler discuss their engrossing biography about one of Kentucky’s most eminent citizens, Henry Clay: The Essential American, on September 14 at The Filson. The Heidlers powerfully illustrate Henry Clay’s remarkable political career in this new and comprehensive biography. The Heidlers are the authors of several books on early American history, including Daily Lives of Civilians in Wartime Modern America: From the Indian Wars to the Vietnam War and The Mexican War.
Born in 1777 in Virginia, Henry Clay accomplished many extraordinary things, including founding the Whig party, running for president five times, and becoming a Speaker of the House, United States Senator, and United States Secretary of State. Clay involved himself in almost every important political event between 1800-1850, including the War of 1812, the extension of slavery into the territories, the Missouri Compromise, Latin-American independence, the creation of the two-party system, the Nullification crisis, the Mexican-American War, and the Compromise of 1850.
This lecture will begin at 6 p.m. at The Filson Historical Society. There is no cost for this event, though reservations are suggested. You may reserve your seat by visiting www.filsonhistorical.org or by calling The Filson at (502) 635-5083.