HORACE GREELEY (February 3, 1811 – November 29, 1872) was the founder and editor of the New York Tribune. Greeley served briefly as a congressman from New York and was the unsuccessful candidate of the new Liberal Republican Party in the 1872 presidential election against incumbent Ulysses S. Grant, who won by a landslide.
One-page, ALS, Office of The Tribune stationary, New York, Oct. 9, 1860, to “Friend S” and written the bottom appears to be H. M. T. Smith, though Greeley’s handwriting can be challenging to decipher.
“Yours is doubtless a bad vote and you must neutralize the Know Nothings...by winning over the Irish. Show them...Fusion is corrupting them and they must recoil. Yours is an exceptional shot; these use other such but not many...”
The Fusion Party was the original name of the Republican Party in Ohio. In 1854, anti-slavery parties were forming in many northern states in opposition to the Kansas Nebraska Act. They felt “Fusion” accurately described the fusion of persons from a variety of political backgrounds.
Greeley joined the radical anti-slavery faction of the Republican Party and demanded the early end of slavery. He denounced more conservative Republicans and criticized Lincoln for proceeding too cautiously to eradicate the institution.
Greeley’s writing can be difficult to decipher. The letter is attached to cardstock. Two small pieces missing in the upper right and left corners, not affecting the writing. Letter has toning, but is still a fine gem from Greeley, who was an important political force in the mid-19th century.
Everything we sell is guaranteed authentic forever to the original buyer. We also offer a 30-day return policy. If you discover a problem or are dissatisfied with an item, please contact us immediately. Our goal is to please every customer. We are pleased to be members of The Manuscript Society, Universal Autograph Collectors Club, The Ephemera Society, the Southern New England Antiquarian Booksellers and the Preferred Autograph Dealers and Auction Houses. [AM 344]