Noah Webster had proposed a convention to Governor Strong. Cautiously, Strong brought Webster’s idea to his council, controlled by the Federalists. The council shelved Webster’s proposal. They favored a more cautious approach. They advocated Federalists hold conventions in the counties. Each locality was to send memorials to Madison and Congress denouncing the war.[1]
Their caution was well advised. Democratic-Republicans held the Massachusetts senate. As representatives of Madison’s party, they would thwart any attempts at a convention.[2]
Moderate Federalists had their eye on the autumn elections. They proposed a “peace party,” nominating a Democratic-Republican to run against Madison. They favored DeWitt Clinton, who had privately assured them that he would pursue peace if elected. [1]
How the Peace Party Failed
Look for it Monday, July 14.
[1] James M. Banner, Jr. To the Hartford Convention: The Federalists and the Origins of Party Politics in Massachusetts 1789-1815, (New York: Alfred A. Knopf) 310.
[2] Banner, Jr. in To the Hartford Convention , 310-11.
