The New Student's Reference Work/Stanton, Edwin McMasters

Stan′ton, Edwin McMasters, an American statesman, was born at Steubenville, O., Dec. 19, 1814. He graduated at Kenyon College, and practiced law at Steubenville, at Pittsburg and finally at Washington. In 1860 he was made attorney-general of the United States, and in 1862 secretary of war. This important position he held during the Civil War, and many decisive movements of the army were made at his suggestion. Difficulties with President Johnson led to his resignation in 1868, Congress passing a vote of thanks for his ability and faithfulness. He was nominated judge of the supreme court by Grant, but died on Dec. 24, 1869, before his commission was made out.