Some other interesting tidbits I have recently found:
  • "For Vance law was primarily preparation for politics, which was his passion. Success in the courtroom was usually the result of wit, humor, boisterous eloquence, and clever retorts, not knowledge of the law. He understood people better than he did judicial matters."
  • "Vance's engaging personality and lengthy public career gained for him an admiration from North Carolinians that no other state official has ever enjoyed"