John Randolph of Roanoke

John Randolph of Roanoke (1773-1833) was a Virginia orator whose years as a member of the House of Representatives and the Senate were defined by his commitment to the republicanism and his advocacy for a commercial agrarian society. Randolph's conservative stance, displayed in his arguments against debt and for the rights of the landed gentry, may be attributed to his ties to his family estate and to his adoption of the elitist values of Southside, Virginia, where he was raised. Randolph opposed the War of 1812 and the Missouri Compromise and was active in debates about tariffs, manufacturing, and currency. However, he had mixed feelings about slavery. While opposed to the slave trade abroad and in the capital, Randolph remained dependent on slaves to work his land.

Randolph won 14 Virginia congressional races, 1799-1833 because he was always available and was the most articulate representative of old Republican values, which he complained Jefferson had abandoned. Voters had esteem for his eminent family, and enjoyed both his fiery character, and his lively electioneering methods. Randolph appealed directly to freeholders, using entertaining and enlightening oratory, socialability, and community of interest, particularly in agriculture, that led to an enduring voter attachment to him, and that discounted serious personal deficiencies. His defense of limited government appeals to 21st century conservatives, especially Russell Kirk.

Further reading

• Devanny, John F., Jr. "A Loathing of Public Debt, Taxes, and Excises": The Political Economy of John Randolph of Roanoke. Virginia Magazine of History and Biography 2001 109(4): 387-416. 0042-6636
• Weaver, Richard M. "Two Types Of American Individualism." Modern Age 1963 7(2): 119-134. 0026-7457