Lewis Cass

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Lewis Cass (October 9, 1782 – June 17, 1866) was an American military officer, politician, and statesman. He represented Michigan in the United States Senate and served in the cabinet of President James Buchanan as Secretary of State. Cass was a leading figure in the Democratic Party and was the party's nominee for President of the United States in the 1848 election.

Early Life and Education

Lewis Cass was born in Exeter, New Hampshire, to Jonathan Cass and Mary Gilman Cass. He attended the Phillips Exeter Academy and later studied law. In 1800, he moved to Marietta, Ohio, where he was admitted to the bar and began practicing law.

Military Career

Cass served in the War of 1812 and was appointed as a brigadier general in the United States Army. He played a significant role in the defense of the Northwest Territory and was instrumental in the capture of Fort Malden.

Political Career

Governor of Michigan Territory

In 1813, President James Madison appointed Cass as the Governor of Michigan Territory. He served in this position until 1831, during which time he negotiated several treaties with Native American tribes, expanding U.S. territory.

Secretary of War

Cass was appointed as the United States Secretary of War by President Andrew Jackson in 1831. He served in this role until 1836, overseeing the implementation of the Indian Removal Act and the relocation of Native American tribes to territories west of the Mississippi River.

Diplomatic Service

From 1836 to 1842, Cass served as the United States Ambassador to France. During his tenure, he worked to strengthen Franco-American relations and promote American interests in Europe.

United States Senator

Cass was elected to the United States Senate from Michigan in 1845. He was a prominent advocate for the doctrine of popular sovereignty, which held that the settlers of a territory should decide whether to permit slavery.

Presidential Candidate

In 1848, Cass was the Democratic nominee for President. He lost the election to Zachary Taylor, the candidate of the Whig Party.

Secretary of State

Cass served as Secretary of State under President James Buchanan from 1857 to 1860. He resigned in protest over Buchanan's handling of the secession crisis.

Later Life and Death

After his resignation, Cass retired from public life. He died on June 17, 1866, in Detroit, Michigan, and was buried in Elmwood Cemetery.

Legacy

Lewis Cass is remembered for his contributions to American politics and his role in the expansion of U.S. territory. Several places, including Cass County, Michigan, are named in his honor.

Related Pages

• Michigan
• United States Senate
• James Buchanan
• Andrew Jackson
• Indian Removal Act
• Popular sovereignty
• 1848 United States presidential election
• Zachary Taylor