He opposed the Mexican - American War , but acceded to federal demands that the states assist in raising troops for the war , earning the wrath of activist Wendell Phillips .
Briggs ' stance as a Cotton Whig put him in opposition to these forces .
Briggs opposed the Mexican - American War , but acceded to federal demands that the states assist in raising troops for the war , earning the wrath of activist Wendell Phillips .
Briggs ' stance as a Cotton Whig put him in opposition to these forces .