Benjamin Chew Howard holds an A.B. from Princeton University and a law degree from Litchfield Law School. He spent a significant portion of his career in public service, including roles in the Maryland legislature and the U.S. Congress, where he chaired the House Foreign Relations Committee. Howard's expertise in legislative matters extended to arbitration and conflict resolution, as evidenced by his appointment to arbitrate the Ohio-Michigan boundary dispute and his role as a peace emissary during the Civil War. His professional background underscores a blend of legislative acumen and diplomatic experience.

Benjamin Chew Howard's political career reveals a unique blend of diplomatic engagement and regional economic focus. His legislative tenure and leadership in the House Foreign Relations Committee underscore a strategic approach to foreign policy. Howard's involvement in arbitrating the Ohio-Michigan boundary dispute and his role as a peace emissary during the Civil War highlight an unexpected commitment to conflict resolution. This juxtaposition of diplomatic and economic roles suggests a highly calculated approach to protecting regional interests.