William Henry Harrison

I read Robert M. Owen’s Mr. Jefferson’s Hammer: William Henry Harrison and the Origins of American Indian Policy.

The first presidential biography book I read in one day. This was highly rated by other presidential biography readers. I can’t say I agree.

The author Staes an intent to examine Harrison’s most impactful work not as President but as governor of Western territories leading up to and during the war of 1812. I think the author covers the “WHAT” question well. The story of Harrison, Tecumseh, and the chiefs brother “The Prophet” on the frontier is compelling. Each person is vying for the loyalty of the remaining, dwindling yet dangerous northwestern tribes. That’s cool.

But the author lacked material towards the “WHY”. Perhaps Harrison didn’t keep a diary. Or wasn’t so prolific in his letters.

Perhaps in this I can find inspiration to keep up with writing myself. As I get older (I’m only 25) I scare myself because sometimes I forget the what and why’s of my own life. Whether deep in my elementary, middle, or high school pasts. Or even within the last month. Stories come flooding back at chance interactions with people wanting to reminisce. Or family members recalling moments I’ve seemingly tossed aside.