ClipArt ETC
John C. Calhoun (March 18, 1782 - March 31, 1850) was a leading Southern politician and political philosopher from South Carolina during the first half of the 19th century. He is perhaps best known as the first Vice President to resign his office. Illustration of John C, Calhoun's grave.

John C. Calhoun's Grave

John C. Calhoun (March 18, 1782 - March 31, 1850) was a leading Southern politician and political philosopher…

In August of 1775, Americans took possession of cannons from the Battery at the tip of Manhattan and exchanged fire with the HMS Asia (1764). They retaliated by firing a 32-gun broadside on the city, sending a cannon ball through the roof of Fraunces Tavern. When the victorious Americans re-occupied the city, it was Fraunces Tavern that hosted Washington and his officers in a victory banquet. On Dec. 4, 1783, Washington was again at Fraunces Tavern to say farewell to his officers in the Long Room. Saving America from the fate of many republics that turned quickly to military dictatorship, Washington resigned his post and returned to civilian life until chosen first President of the United States.

Fraunces Tavern

In August of 1775, Americans took possession of cannons from the Battery at the tip of Manhattan and…

At Fraunces Tavern on December 4, Washington formally bade his officers farewell and on December 23, 1783, he resigned his commission as commander-in-chief, emulating the Roman general Cincinnatus, an exemplar of the republican ideal of citizen leadership who rejected power. During this period, the United States was governed under the Articles of Confederation without a President, the forerunner to the Constitution.

Washington Resigning His Commission

At Fraunces Tavern on December 4, Washington formally bade his officers farewell and on December 23,…