Henry Clay

Henry Clay was a prominent American politician in the early 19th century, known as the "Great Compromiser" for his efforts to resolve conflicts over slavery and state rights. He served as a senator and Speaker of the House, advocating for national unity and economic development through measures like the American System, which included tariffs and infrastructure projects. Clay aimed to balance interests between the North and South, promoting compromises to preserve the Union. His leadership helped shape key policies that kept the United States together during a turbulent period of expansion and sectional tensions.