Henry Clay Campaign Cigar Case, 1844

Henry Clay was among the most influential politicians in American history, although he never won the office of the presidency despite four attempts. His vision of an American nation, united by federally-supported infrastructure projects and capable of cooperation across sections, won him the nickname “The Great Compromiser.” Like Harrison and Jackson, Clay’s supporters emblazoned his face on posters and clay pipes, whiskey glasses (he was a famous drinker) and cigar cases. Long after his death, Americans like Abraham Lincoln continued to look back on Clay as the very model of an American statesman.