Quodlibet: containing some annals thereof ...

"Quodlibet: containing some annals thereof ..." by John Pendleton Kennedy is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative offers an authentic illustration of the origin and growth of the borough of Quodlibet, detailing the sayings and events associated with its townspeople and the notable figures within the community. The work aims to provide a whimsical yet insightful reflection on political and social issues of the time, touching on the rapidly changing landscape of political affiliations and public sentiments. The opening of the book sets the stage for a retrospective exploration of Quodlibet's history, narrated by a schoolmaster named Solomon Secondthoughts. He reflects on the town's transformation over two decades, discussing how political parties have evolved and expressing concern about the loss of historical awareness among the younger generation. With humor, he introduces key characters such as Judge Flam and Nicodemus Handy, highlighting their roles in the establishment of the "Patriotic Copperplate Bank," and the controversies surrounding it. Grant, a local tanner, emerges as a skeptical figure whose resistance to the bank's establishment represents the tensions between traditional and emerging Democratic ideals within the community. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Pendleton Kennedy was an American novelist, lawyer and Whig politician who served as United States Secretary of the Navy from July 26, 1852, to March 4, 1853, during the administration of President Millard Fillmore, and as a U.S. Representative from Maryland's 4th congressional district, during which he encouraged the United States government's study, adoption and implementation of the telegraph. A lawyer who became a lobbyist for and director of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Kennedy also served several terms in the Maryland General Assembly and became its Speaker in 1847.