Lewis Cass

1782–1866 (age 84)

Governor, Senator, Secretary of State

Photograph of Lewis Cass

Biography

Lewis Cass was a prominent American statesman who served as Michigan's Territorial Governor and played a significant role in the nation's westward expansion. He represented Michigan in the U.S. Senate and held the cabinet positions of Secretary of War and Secretary of State under different administrations, bringing extensive diplomatic and military experience to these roles.

Cass was nominated as the Democratic candidate for President in 1848, though he was defeated in the general election. Throughout his career, he was known for his advocacy of popular sovereignty regarding slavery in new territories, a position that reflected the political complexities of the pre-Civil War era.