Christopher Leahy - President without a Party: The Life of John Tyler

History Tavern Podcast

Author Christopher Leahy talked about his new book President without a Party: The Life of John Tyler. Though Tyler is often remembered for his unremarkable presidency, he had long career in politics which included stints as a Virginia legislator, U.S. Congressman, Governor of Virginia, and U.S. Senator. He was involved in many of the seminal legislative battles of the nineteenth century including debates over slavery, the national bank, the protective tariff, and federally-sponsored improvement programs. He also fathered 15 children, including one born when he was 70 years old.