Franklin Pierce
Limited Edition Print
Buy Me!
Each print is an 8x10, signed and numbered first edition of 20. Printed on German Etching Archival Fine Art paper.
About the Man
“We have fallen on great times for little men.” – New York Tribune editorial, 1852.
What truth! Franklin Pierce is often considered the most handsome president to ever hold the office. But the great Harry S Truman said “Pierce was the best looking President the White House ever had – but as President he ranks with Buchanan and Coolidge.” BURN!
And exceptional Theodore Roosevelt said “Pierce was a small politician, of low capacity and mean surroundings, proud to act as a servile tool of men worse than himself but also stronger and abler. He was ever ready to do any work the slavery leaders set him.” A tool!
As mentioned above, Pierce ranks in the bottom dregs of the hall of Presidents, keeping Buchanan and Coolidge company. It’s no wonder the only President to offer him praise was Buchanan. His presidency was such a debacle and his drinking habits so strong, he steered the country even closer to imminent war. In retirement, he disappeared from public view, taking time only to denounce Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation and to drink. He died unmourned.
It’s a sad story and I’m sure it’s not entirely his fault, for not everyone is equipped with the moral and ethical standards and personal stamina to fight against all that was going wrong with America in the 1850s. It’s not until faced with such heavy pressure that the true colors of a man begin to show. Still, Pierce is proof that it takes more than a pretty face and sweet talking lipservice to be a great President, much less a great leader of men.
Pierce quote – “You have summoned me in my weakness, you must sustain me by your strength.”
