James Mcdowell of Virginia
The Perils of an Antebellum Southern Reformer
Abstract
This biography examines the political journey of James McDowell, a Democratic governor from western Virginia during the Jacksonian Era. The journey was shaped by the crosscurrents of a national debate over slavery, democratic advances, and the Jackson’s controversial agenda.
A progressive, he joined the state’s House of Delegates in 1833, pushing for the end of slavery in the Commonwealth, economic improvements, and a system of public education. Called an abolitionist, he ended his anti-slavery campaign, enlarged his plantation holdings, and climbed the political ladder. In 1843, he became governor and congressman until his death in 1851.
The author covers regional and national issues, the multiple burdens of his wife, Susan, who was left alone with her children at home, and other personal crises. An intellectual, noted orator, and diligent party activist, McDowell often opposed the status quo and was an important moderate voice who defended the Constitution at a time of severe sectional divide.
Schlagworte
Southern history social science Virginia history- 21–40 Early Years 21–40
- 81–102 Jacksonian Democrat 81–102
- 103–126 New Places, New Ideas 103–126
- 127–148 Governor 127–148
- 149–170 Family Ties 149–170
- 171–190 Congressman 171–190
- 191–206 The Road Home 191–206
- 207–216 Bibliography 207–216
- 217–220 Index 217–220
- 221–222 About the Author 221–222