1. Henry Clay “The Great Compromiser,” Clay held just about every major political job except president: senator, House speaker, and secretary of state at various times. 2. William Jennings Bryan A three-time nominee for president, Bryan mainstreamed populism in the Democratic Party with his soaring rhetoric and potent connection with the common man. While he never won the big prize, many of his policies eventually became law. 3. John C. Calhoun Vice president under both John Quincy Adams and