Schuyler Colfax

Schuyler Colfax Jr. was born on March 23, 1823, in New York City. He emerged as a prominent figure in American politics, serving as the 17th vice president of the United States from 1869 to 1873. Before his vice presidency, Colfax held the position of the 25th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1863 to 1869. His political journey began as a Whig, transitioned through the short-lived People's Party of Indiana, and ultimately found a home in the Republican Party, representing Indiana's 9th congressional district from 1855 to 1869.

Colfax was a staunch opponent of slavery, playing a crucial role in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. His leadership during his first term as Speaker was instrumental, and he famously cast a vote in favor of the amendment during its final vote in January 1865, a rare act for a Speaker who typically votes only to break ties.

In the 1868 election, Colfax was chosen as Ulysses S. Grant's running mate, and they won decisively against the Democratic nominees. However, his involvement in Grant's presidency was limited, as was customary for vice presidents of that era. While serving, Colfax continued to engage in public speaking and writing, believing that Grant would only serve one term. When Grant announced his intention to run for re-election, Colfax sought the vice-presidential nomination but was ultimately unsuccessful.

Colfax's political career faced challenges when the Crédit Mobilier scandal emerged, revealing that he had accepted payments from the Union Pacific Railroad in exchange for favorable legislative actions. Despite his vigorous defense, the scandal tarnished his reputation. He left the vice presidency in March 1873 and chose not to run for office again, instead focusing on his career as a business executive and a popular lecturer.

Tragically, Colfax's life came to an end on January 13, 1885, when he suffered a heart attack at a railroad station in Mankato, Minnesota, while en route to a speaking engagement in Iowa. He remains one of only two individuals to have served as both Speaker of the House and Vice President, alongside John Nance Garner.