細節
TAYLOR, Zachary, President (1784-1850). Letter signed ("Z. Taylor") to Dr. J.K. Mitchell, Baton Rouge, La., 26 March 1848. 1 page, 4to, on light blue lined paper, integral blank, tape line on top margin, otherwise fine.
"IF HONORED BY ELECTION TO THE PRESIDNCY" TAYLOR PROMISES TO REMAIN "UNCOMMITTED TO THE PRINCIPLES OF EITHER PARTY"
A significant letter in which Taylor admits to party views that would trouble the Whigs when he became president. Writing to an admirer from Philadelphia, Taylor writes: "...Permit me to add, that I am now, as before so repeatedly avowed, in the hands of the people of the country. If honored by election to the Presidency I will strive to execute with fidelity the trust reposed in me, uncommitted to the principles of either party." He graciously notes that if he is not elected "I shall truly rejoice that one more able than I is charged with the responsible duties of the Executive Chair."
In June, 1848, the Whigs chose Taylor as their presidential nominee even though "Taylor viewed himself as a non-partisan figure attracting support from all parties and believed that if he were to be nominated it should not be by one of the established parties" (Bauer, Zachary Taylor, p.224). Taylor maintained his party neutrality when the issue of slavery's extension into the Mexican cession erupted during his presidency. He stood stubbornly by his own plan, despite party lines, until his death in the midst of the controversy allowed for the critical but temporary Compromise of 1850.
"IF HONORED BY ELECTION TO THE PRESIDNCY" TAYLOR PROMISES TO REMAIN "UNCOMMITTED TO THE PRINCIPLES OF EITHER PARTY"
A significant letter in which Taylor admits to party views that would trouble the Whigs when he became president. Writing to an admirer from Philadelphia, Taylor writes: "...Permit me to add, that I am now, as before so repeatedly avowed, in the hands of the people of the country. If honored by election to the Presidency I will strive to execute with fidelity the trust reposed in me, uncommitted to the principles of either party." He graciously notes that if he is not elected "I shall truly rejoice that one more able than I is charged with the responsible duties of the Executive Chair."
In June, 1848, the Whigs chose Taylor as their presidential nominee even though "Taylor viewed himself as a non-partisan figure attracting support from all parties and believed that if he were to be nominated it should not be by one of the established parties" (Bauer, Zachary Taylor, p.224). Taylor maintained his party neutrality when the issue of slavery's extension into the Mexican cession erupted during his presidency. He stood stubbornly by his own plan, despite party lines, until his death in the midst of the controversy allowed for the critical but temporary Compromise of 1850.