Frederick W. Seward, American journalist, lawyer, and politician, 6th United States Assistant Secretary of State (b. 1830)

Frederick William Seward (July 8, 1830 – April 25, 1915) was a distinguished American politician, journalist, and diplomat whose career spanned pivotal moments in United States history, particularly through the turbulent years of the Civil War and Reconstruction. A prominent member of the Republican Party, Seward is best remembered for his two separate terms as the Assistant Secretary of State, serving under three different presidential administrations.

Born into a family deeply entrenched in American politics, Frederick William Seward was the son of one of the era's most influential figures, William H. Seward, who himself served as Governor of New York, a U.S. Senator, and most notably, Secretary of State under Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. This familial connection undoubtedly shaped Frederick's path, providing him with early exposure to the intricacies of national governance and foreign policy. Prior to his federal service, Seward honed his analytical and communication skills as the editor of the Albany Evening Journal, a significant voice in New York State politics, and also served as a New York State Senator, gaining valuable legislative experience.

First Tenure: Amidst Civil War and Reconstruction (1861-1869)

Frederick William Seward first stepped into the role of Assistant Secretary of State in 1861, at the precipice of the American Civil War. Serving under his father, William H. Seward, who was President Abraham Lincoln's Secretary of State, Frederick became an indispensable aide during one of the nation's most challenging periods. In this capacity, he was deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of American diplomacy, working to maintain international relations and prevent foreign intervention in the conflict. His tenure saw critical events unfold, including the delicate Trent Affair and discussions surrounding the Emancipation Proclamation's international reception. He also played a vital supporting role in the negotiations that led to the acquisition of Alaska from Russia in 1867, a landmark diplomatic achievement.

One of the most dramatic and historically significant moments of his life occurred on April 14, 1865, the night President Lincoln was assassinated. On that fateful evening, Frederick William Seward was at his father's residence when an accomplice of John Wilkes Booth, Lewis Powell, attempted to assassinate Secretary of State William H. Seward. Frederick bravely intervened, attempting to defend his father, and was severely wounded in the attack. Both father and son survived the brutal assault, bearing the physical and emotional scars of a night that forever altered the course of American history. He continued his service as Assistant Secretary of State through the entirety of Andrew Johnson's presidency, navigating the complex diplomatic challenges of the Reconstruction era until 1869.

Second Tenure: Under President Rutherford B. Hayes (1877-1879)

Following an eight-year interlude from federal office, during which he continued to be active in public life and served as a Regent of the University of the State of New York, Frederick William Seward returned to the Department of State. In 1877, President Rutherford B. Hayes appointed him once again as Assistant Secretary of State, a testament to his expertise and experience. During this second term, Seward contributed to American foreign policy during a period of expanding global engagement, helping to manage diplomatic relations as the nation recovered from the internal divisions of the Civil War and focused on westward expansion and economic development. His second stint concluded in 1879.

Later Life and Legacy

After his government service, Frederick William Seward remained a respected figure, contributing to the historical record through his writings. He authored an influential biography of his father, titled Autobiography of William H. Seward, from 1801 to 1834. With a Memoir of His Life, and Selections from His Letters, 1831-1846 (published in 1877), and later, the posthumously published Reminiscences of a War-Time Statesman and Diplomat, 1830–1915 (1916), which offered invaluable first-hand accounts of his experiences during the Civil War and the administrations he served. Frederick William Seward passed away on April 25, 1915, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, personal bravery, and scholarly contributions that shed light on a transformative era in American diplomacy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick William Seward

Who was Frederick William Seward?

Frederick William Seward (1830-1915) was a notable American politician, journalist, and diplomat who twice served as the Assistant Secretary of State. He was also the son of influential Secretary of State William H. Seward.

What was his connection to the Lincoln administration?

He served as Assistant Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln from 1861, supporting his father, William H. Seward, who was Lincoln's Secretary of State. Critically, he was severely wounded while defending his father during an assassination attempt on April 14, 1865, the same night Lincoln was assassinated.

What significant historical events did he participate in or witness?

Beyond his involvement in day-to-day Civil War diplomacy and the dramatic assassination attempt, he assisted his father in the negotiations for the purchase of Alaska in 1867 and served during the challenging Reconstruction era under President Andrew Johnson, and later, under President Rutherford B. Hayes.

Did he hold any other notable positions?

Yes, prior to his federal service, he was the editor of the Albany Evening Journal and served as a New York State Senator. He was also a Regent of the University of the State of New York between his two terms as Assistant Secretary of State.

Did he write any books?

Yes, he authored a biography of his father and a memoir of his own experiences, offering valuable historical insights into the period. These include Autobiography of William H. Seward, from 1801 to 1834. With a Memoir of His Life, and Selections from His Letters, 1831-1846 and Reminiscences of a War-Time Statesman and Diplomat, 1830–1915.