Untitled - the Digital Library of Georgia

GEORGIA AND GEORGIANS 549
The Legislature of 1826 also created the Chattahoochee Circuit, of
which Hon. Walter T. Colquitt became the first judge.
Governor Troup's administration closed amidst triumphant plaudits.
Its vigorous'Indian policy had resulted in a final relinquishment of all
the Creek lands within the state. Moreover, it had sounded the death-
knell of the once powerful Clark party, whose discomfited leader was
soon to become a resident of the State of Florida under an appointment .
from the Federal Government. Having occupied the executive chair
for two successive terms, Governor Troup declined to stand for re-elec
tion. Thereupon the Troup party chose as its candidate for governor
the brilliant John Forsyth of Augusta. Mr. Forsyth was then a mem
ber of Congress, where his prowess in debate and his superb oratory
made him one of the recognized leaders of the national House. Mr.
Forsyth's career in Congress had been interrupted by an appointment
from President Monroe as United States minister to Spain; and while
at Madrid he had successfully negotiated for the purchase of Florida.
To oppose Mr. Forsyth for governor the Clark party ch