The Also-Rans
Mark A. Lempke explores what losing presidential candidates can tell us about United States history. There's a lot more than elections here; we'll explore U.S. culture, religion, politics, and society along the way. Intended for politics nerds, history buffs, and all those who have suffered some kind of humiliating defeat.
The Also-Rans
Episode 3: The Last Federalist
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Mark A. Lempke
With special guest Dr. David Gary. Rufus King is one of the most obscure of the also-rans, but he was an active part of countless key moments in early American political history: he fought in the Revolution, helped frame the U.S. Constitution, implemented the Jay Treaty, helped figure out the Northwest Ordinance, and was one of the first prominent anti-slavery American politicians. He was also the final presidential candidate fielded by the dying Federalist Party. With help from our guest, we'll explore how King's career mirrors the rise and fall of one of America's first political parties.