Prominent abolitionist leader (1810-1903) known as the 'Lion of Whitehall.' An ardent supporter of Lincoln, he served as American Minister to Russia from 1862 to 1869, in which capacity he was instrumental in negotiations for the purchase of Alaska. ALS signed “C. M. Clay,” one page, 5 x 8, December 26, 1875. Letter seeking support to be the Democratic Party's 1876 nominee for vice president. In part: "My state will present my name at the National Democratic Convention in 1876 as the nominee for Vice-President. I ask your favor and consideration." In very good to fine condition, with creases to two corners, and small fold splits.
For his anti-slavery views, Clay survived an assassination attempt (while wounded, he cut out his assailant's eyes with a Bowie Knife). He helped found the Republican Party, served as U.S. Minister to Russia at the start of the Civil War, and then a became Major General in the Union Army. He left the Republican Party in 1872 and supported Horace Greeley. Clay sought the vice presidential nomination in the Democratic Party in 1876, but Governor Thomas K. Hendricks chosen instead. He later returned to Republican Party, became eccentric, and married a 15-year old in his 80s.
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