The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
ClassificationsDecorative arts
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.66
On View
Not on viewThe 1841 medal: First Whig President Inaugurated
Although the effects of the depression of the late 1830's hurt President Van Buren's chances of re-election, it was not the deciding factor. Ballyhoo won for William Henry Harrison - it was the first presidential campaign in the carnival style that has become typically American. A remark in a Democratic newspaper belittling Harrison was turned by the Whigs into an immensely popular "log cabin and hard cider" image. No matter that Harrison wasn't born in a log cabin and didn't drink. It contrasted sharply with Van Buren who was portrayed as living in a mansion and drinking champagne.
Political tokens, log cabins on poles, barrels of cider and campaign songs were the order of the day. A popular slogan was "Tippecanoe and Tyler too" which referred to Harrison's vistory over the Indians and John Tyler, the Vice Presidential candidate. Tyler, Henry Clay's fellow Virginian, had been selected to appease Clay's supporters.
Van Buren conducted a traditional sedate campaign. The Democrats tried to reason and discuss the issues but it was difficult to pin the Whigs down. The people were caried away by emotionalism. Harrison made many speeches, often hours long, appealing to nationalities, making promises, and haranguing the opposition.
At 68, he became the oldest man to be inaugurated President. Riding to the Capitol on a white horse, followed by supporters, a crowd variously estimated at 30 to 60 thousand applauded the procession. It was a bitterly cold and windy day but he disdained a hat and overcoat while he gave an hour and forty minute speech. Some thought him old; he sought to prove that he wasn't.
ca. 1840
