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Political Argumentation in the United States: Historical and contemporary studies
David Zarefsky
[Argumentation in Context 7] 2014
► pp. 63–82

Henry Clay and the election of 1844

The limits of a rhetoric of compromise

Henry Clay’s reputation was based on his skill in formulating legislative compromises between competing positions, enacting the attribute of prudence. This approach proved unsuccessful in the context of a heated election campaign. Focusing on a series of public letters Clay issued during 1844, this analysis traces his rhetorical difficulties in the campaign and suggests the limitations of a rhetorical stance based on compromise.

Published online: 24 September 2014
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https://doi.org/10.1075/aic.7.04ch4
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