Roscoe Conkling

Date of Birth: October 30, 1829

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: April 18, 1888

Biography

Roscoe Conkling was a prominent American politician and a leader of the Republican Party in the late 19th century. Born on October 30, 1829, in Albany, New York, Conkling was the son of Alfred Conkling, a U.S. Representative and federal judge. He pursued a career in law before entering politics, becoming known for his oratory skills and his firm stance on political issues of his time. Conkling’s political career began in the New York State Assembly, where he served from 1859 to 1861. He went on to serve in the United States House of Representatives from 1859 to 1863 and again from 1865 to 1867. However, he is best known for his tenure as a U.S. Senator from New York, serving from 1867 to 1881. During his time in the Senate, Conkling was a staunch advocate for civil rights and played a significant role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1875. Conkling was also deeply involved in the internal politics of the Republican Party, leading the “Stalwart” faction, which opposed civil service reform and supported the patronage system. His influence was so significant that he almost secured a nomination for the presidency in 1880, but he ultimately declined the opportunity. After resigning from the Senate in 1881 in protest against President James Garfield’s appointments, Conkling returned to his law practice in New York City, where he remained until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Roscoe Conkling

1. Roscoe Conkling was known for his impressive physical appearance, standing over six feet tall with a robust build and striking facial features.

2. He was a close friend and political ally of President Ulysses S. Grant, and he played a crucial role in Grant’s presidential campaigns.

3. Conkling was one of the most vocal opponents of civil service reform, which sought to eliminate the patronage system in favor of a merit-based system.

4. He famously resigned from the U.S. Senate in 1881, along with his colleague Thomas C. Platt, in protest against President Garfield’s appointments, but failed to be re-elected by the New York State Legislature.

5. After leaving politics, Conkling turned down an appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court, offered by President Chester A. Arthur, a position many considered the pinnacle of a legal career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Roscoe Conkling

1. “I can always forgive a friend, but I can never forgive an enemy.”

2. “The time has come when badges and distinctions of all kinds should be abolished.”

3. “I would rather be right than be President.”

4. “There is a kind of courtesy in the world which is itself a lie.”

5. “The law is a science, and the art of the lawyer is to make the worse appear the better reason.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Roscoe Conkling’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but his significant legal career and political influence suggest he was relatively affluent by the standards of his time.