Oliver Ellsworth

Date of Birth: April 29, 1745

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: November 26, 1807

Biography

Oliver Ellsworth was a prominent American lawyer, judge, politician, and diplomat who played a significant role in the early development of the United States’ legal and political systems. Born in Windsor, Connecticut, Ellsworth was a key figure in the drafting of the United States Constitution and later served as the third Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the federal judiciary through the Judiciary Act of 1789. Ellsworth’s legal acumen and dedication to public service earned him a place among the founding fathers of the United States. Ellsworth attended Yale College before transferring to the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), where he graduated in 1766. He then studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1771. His political career began in the Connecticut General Assembly, and he later served in the Continental Congress and the United States Senate. As a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Ellsworth was a proponent of the Connecticut Compromise, which helped shape the structure of the U.S. legislative system. In 1796, President George Washington appointed Ellsworth as Chief Justice of the United States. During his tenure, Ellsworth worked to establish the authority and independence of the judiciary. He resigned in 1800 due to health issues and returned to Connecticut, where he continued to be active in local politics until his death in 1807.

5 Interesting Facts about Oliver Ellsworth

1. Oliver Ellsworth was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention and helped draft the U.S. Constitution.

2. He was a key architect of the Judiciary Act of 1789, which established the federal judiciary.

3. Ellsworth served as the third Chief Justice of the United States from 1796 to 1800.

4. He played a crucial role in the Connecticut Compromise, which led to the creation of a bicameral legislature.

5. Ellsworth was fluent in multiple languages, including Latin and Greek.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Oliver Ellsworth

1. “The people are the natural guardians of their own rights.”

2. “A government capable of controlling the whole, and bringing its force to a point, ought to be established.”

3. “The Constitution must be maintained without any change that will impair its principles.”

4. “Judges should be removed from politics to preserve the independence of the judiciary.”

5. “The welfare of the people is the supreme law.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Oliver Ellsworth’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a prominent lawyer, judge, and politician, he was likely well-compensated for his various roles.

Children

Oliver Ellsworth had nine children with his wife, Abigail Wolcott. Their children were named Abigail, Oliver, William, Eliza, Martin, Delia, Frances, Clarissa, and Henry. Some of his children went on to have distinguished careers in law, politics, and business.