Autograph letter signed by Col. James Gadsden to President Andrew Jackson, Wacissa, FL, May 29, 1836

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In this letter Col. James Gadsden expresses his vehement opinions to his friend, President Andrew Jackson, concerning the Seminole Wars. Seminole leader, Osceola, successfully outwitted the larger American troops in battles and mortified military officers and the U.S. government. Though he states loyalty to his community, Gadsden describes the Seminole wars as a “mistake,” likely worsening the negative relations between himself and President Jackson.

From the Historical Documents Collection.