Adlai Stevenson I

Adlai Ewing Stevenson I (October 23, 1835 – June 14, 1914) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the 23rd Vice President of the United States from 1893 to 1897 during the second administration of President Grover Cleveland.

Early Life and Education

Adlai E. Stevenson I was born in Christian County, Kentucky, to John Turner Stevenson and Eliza Ewing Stevenson. He was raised in Bloomington, Illinois, where his family moved in 1852. Stevenson attended Illinois Wesleyan University and later studied law at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky.

Political Career

Stevenson began his political career as a member of the Democratic Party. He served as a district attorney in Illinois and was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1874. During his time in Congress, Stevenson was known for his opposition to the Republican policies of the time, particularly those related to Reconstruction.

In 1885, Stevenson was appointed as the First Assistant Postmaster General by President Grover Cleveland. In this role, he was responsible for removing many Republican postmasters and replacing them with Democrats, a practice known as the "spoils system."

Vice Presidency

Adlai E. Stevenson I

Stevenson was elected Vice President of the United States in 1892, serving under President Grover Cleveland. His tenure was marked by his support for Cleveland's policies, including the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act, which was a contentious issue at the time.

Later Life and Legacy

After his term as Vice President, Stevenson remained active in politics. He ran unsuccessfully for governor of Illinois in 1908. Stevenson was also a delegate to several Democratic National Conventions.

Stevenson's legacy continued through his descendants, including his grandson, Adlai Stevenson II, who was the Democratic presidential nominee in 1952 and 1956.

Personal Life

Mary, Julia, and Letitia Stevenson

Stevenson married Letitia Green in 1866, and they had four children. The family was well-known in Bloomington, Illinois, where they resided in the Adlai E. Stevenson I House.

Also see

• Grover Cleveland
• Adlai Stevenson II
• Vice President of the United States
• Democratic Party (United States)