Hannibal Hamlin

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Hannibal Hamlin (August 27, 1809 – July 4, 1891) was an American attorney and politician from the state of Maine. He served as the 15th Vice President of the United States from 1861 to 1865, during the first term of President Abraham Lincoln. Hamlin was the first Vice President from the Republican Party.

Early Life and Education

Hamlin was born in Paris, Maine, then part of Massachusetts. He was the son of Cyrus Hamlin and Anna Livermore. He attended the local schools and later studied at Hebron Academy. Hamlin went on to study law and was admitted to the bar in 1833, beginning his practice in Hampden, Maine.

Political Career

Hamlin's political career began in the Maine House of Representatives, where he served from 1836 to 1840. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1842, serving until 1847. Hamlin was then elected to the United States Senate, where he served from 1848 to 1857.

Originally a member of the Democratic Party, Hamlin became increasingly opposed to the extension of slavery. In 1856, he switched to the newly formed Republican Party. He was elected Governor of Maine in 1857 but resigned after a few months to return to the Senate.

Vice Presidency

In 1860, Hamlin was chosen as Abraham Lincoln's running mate. The Lincoln-Hamlin ticket won the election, and Hamlin served as Vice President during the critical years of the American Civil War. As Vice President, Hamlin was a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery and supported the Union war effort.

Later Life and Career

After his term as Vice President, Hamlin was appointed as the Collector of the Port of Boston by President Andrew Johnson, but he resigned in protest of Johnson's Reconstruction policies. He returned to the Senate in 1869 and served until 1881. Hamlin also served as the United States Ambassador to Spain from 1881 to 1882.

Hamlin retired from public life in 1882 and returned to Maine. He died on July 4, 1891, in Bangor, Maine, and was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Legacy

Hannibal Hamlin is remembered for his steadfast opposition to slavery and his role in the Lincoln administration during the Civil War. His political career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to the state of Maine and the nation.

Related Pages

• Abraham Lincoln
• American Civil War
• Republican Party (United States)
• United States Senate
• Vice President of the United States