Schuyler Colfax, American journalist and politician, 17th Vice President of the United States (d. 1885)

Schuyler Colfax Jr.: A Life in 19th-Century American Politics

Born Schuyler Colfax Jr. on March 23, 1823, and passing away on January 13, 1885, he was a pivotal figure in 19th-century American politics, navigating the tumultuous waters of journalism, business, and public service. His career spanned a critical period in U.S. history, from the antebellum era through the Civil War and Reconstruction, during which he ascended to two of the nation's most powerful offices: Speaker of the House of Representatives and Vice President of the United States. Colfax remains one of only two individuals in American history to have held both these distinguished positions, the other being John Nance Garner.

Early Life and Political Formation

Colfax began his professional life as a journalist, a path that would undoubtedly shape his eloquent public speaking and writing abilities. His early political affiliations reflected the shifting landscape of American parties in the mid-19th century. Initially, he was a member of the Whig Party, a major political force that eventually dissolved over the issue of slavery. Following this, he briefly joined the short-lived People's Party of Indiana before finding his political home in the newly emerging Republican Party. This party, formed largely on an anti-slavery platform, resonated deeply with Colfax's convictions. From 1855 to 1869, he proudly represented Indiana's 9th congressional district as a U.S. Representative, where his opposition to slavery became a defining characteristic of his legislative tenure.

Speaker of the House and the Thirteenth Amendment

Colfax's dedication to the anti-slavery cause propelled him to national prominence. As one of the founders of the Republican Party, he quickly established himself as a leader within its ranks. His leadership culminated in his election as the 25th Speaker of the House of Representatives, a role he held from 1863 to 1869. This period, coinciding with the final years of the Civil War and the dawn of Reconstruction, saw him at the forefront of monumental legislative efforts. Most notably, during his first term as Speaker, Colfax spearheaded the arduous effort to pass the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. This landmark amendment, which formally abolished slavery across the nation, represented a pivotal moment in American history. When the Thirteenth Amendment came before the House for its final, crucial vote in January 1865, Speaker Colfax made a powerful statement by casting a vote in its favor. By convention, the Speaker typically only votes to break a tie, making Colfax's explicit vote of support a deliberate and emphatic declaration of his commitment to ending slavery.

The Vice Presidency Under Ulysses S. Grant

In the lead-up to the 1868 election, Schuyler Colfax Jr.'s distinguished record and popularity made him an ideal running mate for Ulysses S. Grant, the revered Union Civil War general. Together, the Republican ticket swept to an easy victory over Democratic Party nominees Horatio Seymour and Francis Preston Blair Jr., marking the beginning of Colfax's term as the 17th Vice President of the United States, serving from 1869 to 1873. As was common for Vice Presidents during the 19th century, Colfax had relatively little direct involvement in the day-to-day operations of the Grant administration. His primary constitutional duty was to preside over the U.S. Senate. Despite the limited executive power, Colfax maintained an active public life, continuing his passions for lecturing and writing for the press even while holding the nation's second-highest office. Believing President Grant would serve only a single term, Colfax began an unsuccessful campaign in 1870 to garner support for the 1872 Republican presidential nomination, confiding in friends and supporters that he would not seek a second vice-presidential term. However, when Grant announced his intention to run for re-election, Colfax reversed course, attempting to secure the vice-presidential nomination once more. This attempt proved futile, as he was ultimately defeated by Henry Wilson.

The Crédit Mobilier Scandal and Its Aftermath

Colfax's promising political career was irrevocably tarnished by the Crédit Mobilier scandal, one of the most significant corruption scandals of the post-Civil War era. A Congressional investigation conducted between 1872 and 1873 uncovered that several federal government officials, including Colfax, had accepted payments of cash and discounted stock from the Union Pacific Railroad's Crédit Mobilier construction company in 1868. These inducements were allegedly offered in exchange for favorable actions during the construction of the transcontinental railroad, a project of immense national importance. Though Colfax vehemently defended himself against the charges, steadfastly denying any wrongdoing, the revelations severely damaged his public reputation and political standing. The scandal cast a long shadow over his legacy, effectively ending his aspirations for further public office. Colfax concluded his term as Vice President in March 1873 and never again ran for office.

Later Life and Enduring Legacy

After leaving the vice presidency, Schuyler Colfax Jr. transitioned to a career as a business executive. He also rediscovered his talents as a compelling public speaker, becoming a highly popular lecturer and speechmaker across the country. On January 13, 1885, while en route to a speaking engagement in Iowa, Colfax suffered a heart attack and tragically died at a railroad station in Mankato, Minnesota. Despite the shadow of the Crédit Mobilier scandal, his significant contributions to American history, particularly his crucial role in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, ensure his place in the annals of U.S. political history. His unique achievement of serving as both Speaker of the House and Vice President underscores a remarkable career that helped shape a nation grappling with profound change.

Frequently Asked Questions about Schuyler Colfax Jr.

Who was Schuyler Colfax Jr.?

Schuyler Colfax Jr. (1823–1885) was an American journalist, businessman, and politician who served as the 17th Vice President of the United States (1869–1873) and, prior to that, as the 25th Speaker of the House of Representatives (1863–1869). He was a prominent figure in the Republican Party and a staunch opponent of slavery.

When did Schuyler Colfax Jr. serve as Vice President?

He served as Vice President from 1869 to 1873 under President Ulysses S. Grant.

What political parties did Schuyler Colfax Jr. belong to?

Colfax was initially a Whig, then part of the short-lived People's Party of Indiana, and later became a founder and prominent member of the Republican Party.

What was his role in the Thirteenth Amendment?

As Speaker of the House, Schuyler Colfax Jr. led the effort to pass the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which abolished slavery. He emphasized his support by casting a vote in favor during its final passage in January 1865.

What was the Crédit Mobilier scandal?

The Crédit Mobilier scandal was a major corruption scandal during the Grant administration (1872–73). A Congressional investigation identified Colfax and other federal officials as having accepted cash payments and discounted stock from the Union Pacific Railroad in exchange for favorable actions related to the construction of the transcontinental railroad. Though he defended himself, his reputation was significantly damaged.

What unique distinction does Schuyler Colfax Jr. hold?

He is one of only two individuals in U.S. history to have served as both Speaker of the House of Representatives and Vice President of the United States, the other being John Nance Garner.