The Role Of Henry Clay In American History

Many people can claim to be the most important person in American history. A great number of people have shaped the history of America, but one person shaped the history of the nation more so than the others. Henry Clay was a powerful political force in the 1800’s and many of his political actions still have major effects to this day. He helped shape the nation into what it currently is and without him the course of the nation could have been forever changed. Henry Clay and his political achievements may not be as well-known as others today. However, his major plans and policies, like the Missouri Compromise and Compromise of 1850, had major impact on the United States and possibly saved the Union. Therefore, Henry Clay is the most important figure in American History. Henry Clay …show more content…
During the election, a major event happened and Henry Clay was almost directly responsible for it. That event would later be dubbed the “Corrupt Bargain” by Andrew Jackson. During the election, there were four major candidates, William Crawford, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson and Henry Clay. (Citation needed) During the election, Jackson won more of the popular vote and electoral vote but there was no clear majority. (Citation needed) The vote went to the House of Representatives where Henry Clay held an important position, Speaker of the House. (Citation needed) Despite Jackson winning the popular vote, Adams won the presidency. (Citation needed) Jackson claimed that Henry Clay colluded with Adams to secure Adams the presidency; Jackson called this so-called interference in the election the “Corrupt Bargain.” (Citation needed). Without this “Corrupt Bargain” the presidential election could have had different results, without Henry Clay it is quite possible that Jackson would have been president sooner and the course of the nation could have