John Caldwell Calhoun American politician Country: USA

Biography of John Caldwell Calhoun

John Caldwell Calhoun was an American political figure who held prominent positions in the United States government during the early 19th century. He served as the Secretary of War in James Monroe's administration from 1817 to 1823 and as the Vice President under John Quincy Adams from 1824 to 1828.

Calhoun was born in South Carolina in 1782 and graduated from Yale University in 1802. He began his political career representing his home state in the United States Senate from 1810 to 1817. During this time, he supported the war against England.

In Monroe's administration, Calhoun served as the Secretary of War for six years, overseeing military affairs and playing a significant role in shaping the country's defense policies. In Adams' administration, he became the Vice President, a position he held until 1828. However, his relationship with President Adams deteriorated, and shortly before the re-elections, Calhoun resigned and returned to the Senate.

In 1844, Calhoun once again assumed an executive role, serving as the acting Secretary of State in John Tyler's administration for six months. He participated in unsuccessful negotiations with England. Calhoun gained fame as a "Southern expansionist," advocating for slavery and opposing abolitionism.

During the last two years of his life, Calhoun represented South Carolina in the Senate. He passed away in 1850, leaving behind a complex legacy as a prominent political figure and staunch defender of Southern interests.