Daniel Webster

Born January 18, 1782, in Salisbury, New Hampshire, Daniel Webster was a central figure in the nation's history. Webster studied at Phillips Exeter Academy before enrolling at Dartmouth in 1797. There he became known as a forceful speaker. He studied law in Boston and eventually began a practice in Portsmouth in 1807. Webster prospered, achieving financial success and professional prestige.

• Politics soon became part of Webster's life.
• In 1812 he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, successfully combining his political and legal careers.
• In 1822 Webster was elected to the U.S. Senate, where he increased his reputation as an orator. His response in 1830 to the doctrine of nullification and states rights made him a prominent national figure.
• Although Webster's more notable efforts were performed in the Senate, he also served in the Cabinet as Secretary of State under Presidents Harrison and Tyler in 1840–1843.
• Webster returned to the Senate in 1844, and there he continued to defend the unity of the nation with his eloquence.
• In 1850 he was called by President Fillmore to serve again as Secretary of State, the office he held until his death on October 24, 1852.