13 Quotes & Sayings By Henry Clay

 Henry Clay was the dominant figure in the American Whig Party during the years 1824 to 1852. He served as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Secretary of State, and U.S. Senator. His foreign policy was based on nationalism and expansionism Read more

He strongly supported slavery and opposed abolitionism. He sought to strengthen national security by acquiring territories from Mexico and by accepting Texas into the Union in 1845. Clay sought the presidency in 1844 but lost to James Polk in a close election.

1
Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the grateful and appreciating heart. Henry Clay
2
Their disappearance from the human family would be no great loss to the world. Henry Clay
3
Sir, I would rather be right than to be President. Henry Clay
4
Sir, I had rather be right than to be President. Henry Clay
5
Recognize at all times the paramount right of your Country to your most devoted services, whether she treat you ill or well, and never let selfish views or interests predominate over the duties of patriotism. Henry Clay
6
Statistics are no substitute for judgement. Henry Clay
7
Government is a trust and the officers of the government are trustees and both the trust and the trustees are created for the benefit of the people. Henry Clay
8
Political parties serve to keep each other in check one keenly watching the other. Henry Clay
9
I would rather be right than President. Henry Clay
10
Sir I would rather be right than be President. Henry Clay
11
Government is a trust, and the officers of the government are trustees. And both the trust and the trustees are created for the benefit of the people. Henry Clay
12
Of all the properties which belong to honorable men, not one is so highly prized as that of character. Henry Clay