Jonathan Russell

[1] He engaged in the mercantile business in partnership with Otis Ammidon, importing goods from Europe for sale in America.

[1][3] He soon transferred to England, where he was Chargé d'Affaires and acting Minister when war was declared by the United States in 1812.

[1] He became a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1820,[5] and also served as a delegate to that year's state constitutional convention.

[3] Russell intended the pamphlet to further Henry Clay's presidential candidacy against Adams in the 1824 election.

[1] Russell had known Lafayette since 1811, and decorated his home for a lavish celebration with the anticipation of renewing their friendship.