William Henry Harrison During The American Founding
Well before he served as President of the United States, William Henry Harrison earned his reputation as a leader on the frontier during the early years of the American Republic.
Though Harrison should not be classified as a Founder, with his primary contribution to the nation coming during the Age of Jackson, he was a major factor in the efforts of the first few presidential administrations to settle the Northwest Territory.
William Henry Harrison
When William Henry Harrison was three years old his father signed the Declaration of Independence.
Growing up in such a prominent Virginia family, William was afforded a stellar education.
After his father’s death, however, Harrison determined to live the life of a frontier soldier.
The Northwest Territory
William joined the Legion of the United States (a precursor to the US Army) as an officer when he was just 18.
He traveled to the frontier and joined the Northwest Indian War where he served as an aide-de-camp to Major General Anthony Wayne.
After his service with ‘Mad Anthony’ Wayne, Harrison spent time serving as Secretary of the Northwest Territory.
House of Representatives
After a year serving as Secretary, William was chosen as the first Delegate to speak for the Northwest Territory at the United States House of Representatives.
Although he did not have the power to vote, Harrison otherwise acted as every other member, including sponsoring bills and participating in debate.
Shortly after his 27th birthday, William was chosen by President John Adams to serve as the first Governor of the newly-formed Indiana Territory.
Territorial Governor
Harrison spent twelve years organizing the Indiana Territory (which had been cut from the Northwest Territory in anticipation of Ohio Statehood).
During this time he drove the area towards the goal of becoming a State, notably negotiating several important treaties with the Native American nations in the area.
William resigned his position in 1812 to take command during the War of 1812 which established a reputation that would catapult him into a leader on the national stage and eventual President of the United States.
Do you want to read about other men whose career began during the Founding (but were really part of the Age of Jackson)?
Here you go:
Andrew Jackson’s Revolutionary War
John Quincy Adams’ Role in the American Founding
Writing For Wythe - The Early Career of Henry Clay
There are plenty of books about William Henry Harrison.
‘Mr. Jefferson’s Hammer’ specifically discusses Harrison’s time as a Founder.
Pick up a copy through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
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