Daniel webster biography summary template

Early Life and Career in Law and Politics

Webster was born on January 18, 1782, in Salisbury, New Hampshire, on what was then the frontier of English settlement in North America.

His father was a farmer and tavern keeper, and young Webster often gave readings and recitations to entertain tavern guests, an early indication of his oratorical skills.

After less than a year of preparatory school at Phillips Exeter Academy, Webster entered Dartmouth College at the age of 15.

He graduated in 1801 near the top of his class and began studying law under the tutelage of a local lawyer in Salisbury. By 1807, Webster had enough experience to set up his own law practice in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Daniel webster genealogy

He married Grace Fletcher in 1808, and the couple would have five children.

Motivated by the economic interests of his clients, Portsmouth’s wealthy shipowners and merchants, Webster was drawn into politics. He opposed the embargo and other policies of Thomas Jefferson’s administration aimed at