"Robert J. Walker" may not ring a bell for most Americans today, but a highly undemocratic "constitution" for the Kansas Territory struck a chord with a once-promising politician in the Democratic Party.  Although a pro-slavery advocate, Walker was arguably a precursor to the Democratic party's Civil War schisms and an early supporter of the Union before Lincoln was even elected. Learn why this prominent Democrat wrote a defiant resignation letter to then-Secretary of State Lewis Cass and thoroughly explained his reasons for siding with the will of the people of Kansas and the national interest.

Fun fact: he helped establish what eventually became the Department of the Interior!

SUBSCRIBE to our e-mail list for the latest news and updates from Friends & Fellow Citizens!

Support the show

Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute!
JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level!
NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now!

NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.