Henry Wilson

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== Henry Wilson ==

Henry Wilson (February 16, 1812 – November 22, 1875) was an American politician who served as the 18th Vice President of the United States from 1873 to 1875. He was a leading Republican and a strong opponent of slavery.

Early Life

Henry Wilson was born Jeremiah Jones Colbath in Farmington, New Hampshire. He changed his name to Henry Wilson in 1833. Wilson grew up in poverty and worked as a farm laborer and shoemaker before pursuing a career in politics.

Political Career

Wilson began his political career in the Massachusetts General Court, serving in both the Massachusetts House of Representatives and the Massachusetts Senate. He was a member of the Free Soil Party before joining the Republican Party.

U.S. Senate

Wilson was elected to the United States Senate in 1855, where he served until 1873. He was a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery and played a significant role in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery.

Vice Presidency

In 1872, Wilson was elected Vice President of the United States on the ticket with Ulysses S. Grant. He served from March 4, 1873, until his death on November 22, 1875. During his tenure, he continued to advocate for civil rights and the reconstruction of the Southern states.

Death and Legacy

Henry Wilson died of a stroke while in office and was buried in Natick, Massachusetts. He is remembered for his strong stance against slavery and his efforts to promote civil rights during the Reconstruction era.

Related Pages

• Vice President of the United States
• Ulysses S. Grant
• Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Republican Party (United States)
• Massachusetts General Court
• Reconstruction era