Edwin M. Stanton

Date of Birth: December 19, 1814

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: December 24, 1869

Biography

Edwin McMasters Stanton was a prominent American lawyer and politician who served as the Secretary of War under the Lincoln Administration during the American Civil War. Born in Steubenville, Ohio, Stanton began his career as a lawyer and quickly gained a reputation for his keen legal mind and formidable courtroom presence. His legal career included high-profile cases, including serving as defense counsel in the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson. Stanton’s most notable contribution came during the Civil War when President Abraham Lincoln appointed him as Secretary of War in 1862. His tenure was marked by his vigorous and efficient efforts to organize the military resources of the North and his unyielding stance on the prosecution of the war. He was instrumental in the Union’s victory and played a significant role in the administration of military justice. After Lincoln’s assassination, Stanton continued to serve under President Andrew Johnson but eventually resigned due to political disagreements. In his later years, Stanton was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Ulysses S. Grant but died before he could take his seat.

5 Interesting Facts about Edwin M. Stanton

1. Edwin M. Stanton played a crucial role in organizing the Union Army during the American Civil War.

2. He was known for his firm and often abrasive personality, which earned him the nickname “Mars,” the Roman god of war.

3. Stanton was a key figure in the efforts to capture and prosecute the conspirators involved in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

4. He initially supported President Andrew Johnson but later became a staunch opponent, leading to his involvement in the impeachment proceedings against Johnson.

5. Stanton was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court by President Ulysses S. Grant but passed away before taking his oath of office.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edwin M. Stanton

1. “I know no law but that of justice and humanity.”

2. “A man of action in war should be a man of thought in peace.”

3. “The life of the nation is secure only while the nation is honest, truthful, and virtuous.”

4. “I am now brought to the bitter reflection that I must stand alone in the world.”

5. “There is no more fit object for the exercise of government authority than the protection of the health and lives of the people.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Stanton’s net worth at the peak of his career was estimated to be considerable due to his successful legal practice and public service, but specific figures are not well-documented.