Simon Cameron

Date of Birth: March 8, 1799

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: June 26, 1889

Biography

Simon Cameron was an influential American politician and businessman who played a significant role during the mid-19th century. Born in the small town of Maytown, Pennsylvania, Cameron rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful figures in American politics. He is best known for serving as Secretary of War under President Abraham Lincoln during the early years of the Civil War and for his long tenure as a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania. Cameron began his career in journalism and quickly transitioned into politics, aligning himself with the Democratic Party, and later, the Republican Party. His political career was marked by his skill in navigating the complexities of party politics and his controversial use of patronage and political machines. Despite facing numerous accusations of corruption, Cameron’s influence and ability to secure government contracts for his business interests made him a key player in national politics.

5 Interesting Facts about Simon Cameron

1. Simon Cameron was initially a newspaper editor and owner before entering politics.

2. He was appointed as Secretary of War by President Abraham Lincoln but was removed after a year due to allegations of corruption.

3. Cameron was a staunch supporter of the Union during the Civil War and worked to recruit and equip troops.

4. He served multiple terms as a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, both before and after his time as Secretary of War.

5. Despite his controversial methods, Cameron was instrumental in the formation of the Republican Party in Pennsylvania.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Simon Cameron

1. “An honest politician is one who, when he is bought, will stay bought.”

2. “I am not a candidate for any office. What I want is to help the government in this hour of peril.”

3. “The country must be preserved, and I am willing to do anything in my power to accomplish that end.”

4. “In politics, as in life, it is survival of the fittest.”

5. “I have no ambition to be anything but useful to my country.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Simon Cameron’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $10 million, a substantial sum for his time, largely accrued from his business ventures and political influence.

Children

Simon Cameron had several children, most notably his son James Donald Cameron, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a prominent politician, serving as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania and Secretary of War under President Ulysses S. Grant.