Schuyler Colfax

Schuyler Colfax (March 23, 1823 – January 13, 1885) was an American politician who served as the 17th Vice President of the United States from 1869 to 1873, during the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant. Prior to his vice presidency, he was a U.S. Representative from Indiana and served as the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.

Early life and career

Colfax was born in New York City, the son of Schuyler Colfax Sr. and Hannah Stryker. After his father's death, his family moved to Indiana, where he became involved in journalism and politics. He was the editor of the St. Joseph Valley Register, a Whig newspaper.

Political career

Colfax was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1854 as a member of the Republican Party. He was a strong supporter of Abraham Lincoln and the Union during the American Civil War.

In 1863, Colfax was elected Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, a position he held until 1869. As Speaker, he was known for his support of Reconstruction policies and civil rights for African Americans.

Vice Presidency

In 1868, Colfax was nominated for Vice President on the Republican ticket with Ulysses S. Grant. They won the election, and Colfax served as Vice President from 1869 to 1873. During his tenure, he supported Grant's policies but was implicated in the Credit Mobilier scandal, which damaged his political career.

Later life and legacy

After leaving office, Colfax returned to the lecture circuit and continued to be active in public life. He died of a heart attack in Mankato, Minnesota in 1885.

Colfax is remembered for his contributions to the Republican Party and his role in the post-Civil War era. Several places in the United States are named after him, including Colfax, California and Colfax County, New Mexico.

References

• Biographical Directory of the United States Congress
• American National Biography

External links

• U.S. Senate biography

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  Schuyler Colfax portrait (cropped)
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  Schuyler-Colfax House
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  Schuyler Colfax, Representative from Indiana, Thirty-fifth Congress, half-length portrait
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  John C. Frémont
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  Grant-Colfax
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  SColfax
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  Keppler Credit Mobilier Hari-Kari
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  Schuyler Colfax gravesite
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  Ellen Maria Colfax