Date
2-28-2025
Department
College of Arts and Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in History (PhD)
Chair
Matthew Hill
Keywords
Early American History, Oliver Wolcott, Treasury, Treasury Secretary, Connecticut, Federalist, Adams, Washington, Hamilton, Early National Period, Quasi War, War of 1812, Bureaucracy
Disciplines
History
Recommended Citation
Lizzi, John F., "Oliver Wolcott Jr.: A Political Life" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 6540.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/6540
Abstract
Oliver Wolcott Jr. (1760-1833) was the nation’s second Treasury Secretary and a key figure on the national stage during the Federalist administrations of Presidents George Washington and John Adams. Upon his resignation from the federal government during the Jeffersonian takeover during the Election of 1800, Wolcott prospered for many years as a private citizen. He was later elected Governor of Connecticut, serving for ten years. This project examines his contributions to both national and state government during his nearly forty years of public service. It also evaluates the extent to which he evolved politically during his long career. Wolcott’s success can be attributed to his steadfast commitment to his principles (including nationalism, the need for a strong national government, and the promotion of manufacturing and industry), his integrity, his amiable character, and his keen sense of how to use political means to achieve larger cultural and societal goals. The latter explains why, post-1800, Wolcott became disillusioned with the Federalist Party. As a member of Connecticut’s new coalition Tolerationist Party, the Federalists lost power in Connecticut upon his ascension to the governorship.
