Schuyler Colfax

Schuyler Colfax (1823–1885) was a prominent figure in 19th-century American politics, serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as the 17th Vice President of the United States under Ulysses S. Grant. Known for his oratory skills, dedication to legislative reform, and role in the transformative Reconstruction era, Colfax’s career reflected the complexities and challenges of post-Civil War America. 

Early Life and Education

Schuyler Colfax was born on March 23, 1823, in New York City. He was the son of Schuyler Colfax Sr., a bank teller who died shortly before Colfax was born, and Hannah Stryker Colfax. His mother remarried, and the family moved to New Carlisle, Indiana, where Colfax spent much of his childhood. Growing up in modest circumstances, Colfax demonstrated a strong work ethic and a keen interest in politics and public affairs (Holliday, 1886).

Colfax’s formal education was limited, as he left school at an early age to support his family. Despite this, he was largely self-taught, voraciously reading newspapers and books to expand his knowledge. This intellectual curiosity laid the foundation for his future career in journalism and politics (Parmiter, 1958).

Early Career in Journalism

Colfax began his career in journalism as the editor of the St. Joseph Valley Register, a Whig-aligned newspaper in South Bend, Indiana. His tenure as editor allowed him to articulate his views on issues such as temperance, economic development, and the abolition of slavery. Under his leadership, the newspaper gained prominence and became a platform for his burgeoning political ambitions (Wilson, 1955).

Colfax’s work in journalism not only sharpened his skills as a communicator but also earned him a reputation as a thoughtful and principled public figure. His editorials often emphasized the need for national unity, economic opportunity, and moral leadership, themes that would later define his political career (Holliday, 1886).

Entry into Politics and Rise to Prominence

Colfax entered politics in the early 1840s, initially aligning with the Whig Party. He served as a delegate to the Indiana constitutional convention in 1850, where he advocated for democratic reforms, including expanded voting rights and the establishment of public schools. His moderate but reformist stance resonated with voters, and in 1854, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a member of the nascent Republican Party (Parmiter, 1958).

During his tenure in Congress, Colfax became a leading voice against the expansion of slavery. He supported the Kansas-Nebraska Act and denounced the Dred Scott decision, arguing that it undermined the principles of freedom and equality. His eloquence and conviction earned him respect among his colleagues and positioned him as a rising star within the Republican Party (Wilson, 1955).

Speaker of the House

In 1863, Colfax was elected Speaker of the House, a position he held until 1869. As Speaker, he presided over some of the most consequential debates in American history, including those related to the Civil War and Reconstruction. Colfax’s leadership style was characterized by fairness, efficiency, and a commitment to legislative reform (Holliday, 1886).

One of Colfax’s most notable achievements as Speaker was his support for the passage of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. He also championed legislation aimed at rebuilding the South, protecting the rights of freedmen, and promoting economic development. Colfax’s tenure as Speaker solidified his reputation as a principled and effective leader during a critical period in American history (Parmiter, 1958).

Vice Presidency

In 1868, Colfax was selected as Ulysses S. Grant’s running mate in the presidential election. His selection was strategic: as a respected Midwestern politician with strong anti-slavery credentials, Colfax balanced the ticket geographically and ideologically. The Grant-Colfax ticket won a decisive victory, reflecting the Republican Party’s dominance in the post-war era (Wilson, 1955).

Colfax’s tenure as Vice President (1869–1873) was marked by his efforts to promote national unity and support Grant’s Reconstruction policies. As President of the Senate, he played a largely ceremonial role but was instrumental in advocating for civil rights legislation and infrastructure development. Colfax’s speeches often emphasized the need for reconciliation between North and South and the importance of protecting the rights of African Americans (Holliday, 1886).

The Credit Mobilier Scandal

Despite his accomplishments, Colfax’s political career was tarnished by the Credit Mobilier scandal, which emerged during his final year as Vice President. The scandal involved allegations of corruption and bribery related to the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. Colfax was accused of accepting shares in the Credit Mobilier company in exchange for favorable legislation (Chernow, 2017).

Although Colfax denied any wrongdoing, the scandal damaged his reputation and ended his prospects for further political advancement. He left office in 1873 under a cloud of controversy, marking a sharp decline from his once-stellar reputation. The Credit Mobilier affair remains a significant blemish on Colfax’s legacy, highlighting the challenges of maintaining integrity in a rapidly industrializing nation (Wilson, 1955).

Later Years and Legacy

After leaving office, Colfax retired from politics and returned to Indiana. He devoted his later years to lecturing and writing, focusing on issues such as temperance and civic responsibility. Despite the setbacks of his political career, Colfax remained a respected figure in his community and continued to advocate for the values he had championed throughout his life (Parmiter, 1958).

Colfax’s legacy is complex, reflecting both his significant contributions to American history and the controversies that marred his later years. As Speaker of the House and Vice President, he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s response to the Civil War and Reconstruction. His commitment to civil rights and national unity left an enduring mark, even as the Credit Mobilier scandal underscored the challenges of political life in a rapidly changing era (Chernow, 2017).

Final Summary

Schuyler Colfax’s life and career exemplify the triumphs and tribulations of 19th-century American politics. From his early days as a journalist in Indiana to his leadership roles as Speaker of the House and Vice President, Colfax was a dedicated public servant who sought to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. His advocacy for abolition, civil rights, and Reconstruction policies demonstrated his commitment to justice and equality. However, his involvement in the Credit Mobilier scandal highlights the complexities of navigating political power during a period of rapid economic and social change. Despite these challenges, Colfax’s contributions to American history remain significant, reflecting his enduring belief in the principles of freedom and democracy.

 

References

Chernow, R. (2017). Grant. New York: Penguin Press.

Holliday, C. W. (1886). Life of Schuyler Colfax. New York: Funk & Wagnalls.

Parmiter, R. (1958). Schuyler Colfax and the Politics of Reconstruction. Bloomington: Indiana University Press.

Wilson, R. G. (1955). Reconstruction: The Battle for Justice in the Post-Civil War Era. New York: Oxford University Press.

Wright, J. F. (2000). The Rise and Fall of the Radical Republicans. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press.