Vital Statistics

Biography

Pierce Butler, an aristocratic former officer in the British Army, became a fierce American patriot and a key delegate from South Carolina. At the convention, he was a powerful proponent of a strong national government and a vigorous defender of the interests of southern states. He was the originator of the Fugitive Slave Clause, a difficult compromise of its time, but his overall focus was on building a united nation capable of defending itself. He served with distinction and a powerful voice for national strength.