Independence Day 1826 was set to be the biggest celebration in the nation’s history. In the 50 years since the Declaration of Independence, it had survived wars with England, France and the Barbary pirates. It had prospered and expanded, adding states and the entire Louisiana territory, making its boundaries the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The opening of the Erie Canal brought the wealth of the Midwest to the East Coast.

The most divisive issue of the day, slavery, in the eyes of most had been put to rest with the Missouri Compromise.