THEIR MOTIVES

The early 1800s were a tumultuous period with rising political pressures and tension. Fortunately, the Great Triumvirate, each representing a different part of the country, were there to resolve the conflict. As "Lions of the Senate" they provided a powerful governing voice and advanced the American Movement. Webster worked with Calhoun to revive the Bank of the US, an idea founded by Alexander Hamilton. Clay planned for internal improvements to promote the American industry, which Webster criticized. 

Although they had a plethora of conflicting ideas, they were united against one thing: Andrew Jackson. He had opposed Webster and Calhoun's attempt to revive the Bank of the US, which threatened to unravel the entire economical system. In addition, Jackson acted based on his policies not on the Constitution. This, to the Great Triumvirate, was a misuse of power. In response, they formed the Whig Party strongly opposing Andrew Jackson.