Oliver Barrett Thomstone Poster: The Man, the Myth, the Legend

Introduction

Oliver Barrett Thomstone is one of the most iconic figures in American history. He was a soldier, a politician, and a statesman. He served as the 12th President of the United States from 1841 to 1845. During his presidency, he oversaw the annexation of Texas and the outbreak of the Mexican-American War.

Oliver Barrett has been the subject of numerous books, articles, and films. A popular poster featuring his image is a powerful reminder of his legacy.

Oliver Barrett Thomstone: The Early Years

Oliver Barrett Thomstone was born on November 5, 1795, in Hanover County, Virginia. He was the son of John Thomstone, a wealthy planter, and Elizabeth Barrett Thomstone. Oliver had a privileged upbringing. He attended the College of William and Mary and studied law. After graduating, he returned to Hanover County and practiced law.

Oliver Barrett Thomstone: The Military Years

In 1812, the United States declared war on Great Britain. Oliver Barrett Thomstone enlisted in the army and served as a captain in the Virginia militia. He fought in several battles, including the Battle of Bladensburg and the Battle of New Orleans. After the war, he returned to Hanover County and continued to practice law.

Oliver Barrett Thomstone: The Political Years

In 1826, Thomstone was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. He served in the House of Delegates for several years and then was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1833. He served in the House of Representatives for eight years and then was elected to the United States Senate in 1841.

Oliver Barrett Thomstone: The Presidency

In 1841, Oliver Barrett Thomstone was elected President of the United States. He defeated incumbent President Martin Van Buren by a large margin. During his presidency, Thomstone oversaw the annexation of Texas and the outbreak of the Mexican-American War. He also signed into law the Tariff of 1842, which raised tariffs on imported goods.

Thomstone's presidency was a time of great turmoil and change. The United States was expanding westward, and the issue of slavery was becoming increasingly divisive. Thomstone did his best to navigate these challenges, but he was ultimately unable to prevent the outbreak of the Civil War.

Oliver Barrett Thomstone: The Later Years

After leaving office, Thomstone retired to his home in Hanover County. He continued to be active in politics and served as a delegate to the peace conference in 1861. He died on October 31, 1874.

The Legacy of Oliver Barrett Thomstone

Oliver Barrett Thomstone was a complex and controversial figure. He was a brilliant military strategist, a skilled politician, and a devoted statesman. However, he was also a slave owner, and his annexation of Texas led to the Mexican-American War. Despite his flaws, Thomstone was a pivotal figure in American history. He helped to shape the United States into the nation it is today.

Table 1: Oliver Barrett Thomstone's Presidential Accomplishments

Table 2: Oliver Barrett Thomstone's Military Service

Table 3: Oliver Barrett Thomstone's Political Offices

Table 4: Oliver Barrett Thomstone's Published Works

Conclusion

Oliver Barrett Thomstone was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a soldier, a politician, and a statesman. He served as the 12th President of the United States from 1841 to 1845. During his presidency, he oversaw the annexation of Texas and the outbreak of the Mexican-American War. Thomstone's legacy is complex and controversial, but he is undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in American history.