John Tyler

Upon William Henry Harrison's death, Tyler became the first vice president to assume the presidency. He insisted on being president, not acting president, setting the precedent for presidential succession.

Tyler vetoed two bills to reestablish a national bank, breaking with the Whig Party. His actions led to his expulsion from the Whig Party and the resignation of his entire cabinet except Secretary of State Daniel Webster.

Tyler approved the treaty negotiated by Secretary of State Daniel Webster with Britain, settling the northeastern boundary of the United States (Maine-New Brunswick). The treaty averted potential conflict with Britain.

Tyler signed a joint resolution for the annexation of Texas just before leaving office. The annexation added a large slaveholding territory to the U.S., leading to the Mexican-American War.

Tyler served as a delegate to the Virginia Secession Convention and voted for secession. He was elected to the Confederate House of Representatives but died before taking his seat.