John Cotton Smith

John Cotton Smith portrait

John Cotton Smith

U.S.A.

Party Federalist
Latest Campaign State Governor
Date of Birth February 12, 1765
Date of Death Dec. 7, 1845 (Age: 80)
Overall Community Sentiment: Neutral

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Overview
Community
Analysis
Personal Background

John Cotton Smith graduated from Yale College and began practicing law in Sharon. He transitioned into politics, serving multiple terms in the Connecticut House of Representatives and as its speaker. Smith held significant roles in both state and federal government, including serving in the U.S. Congress and as Lieutenant Governor and Governor of Connecticut. He also held judicial positions and was president of the American Bible Society.

Political Ideas

John Cotton Smith's political identity is marked by a unique blend of Federalist economic advocacy and deep religious engagement. His support for federal infrastructure and industry funding aligns with traditional Federalist policies, yet his active involvement in religious organizations hints at a more complex ideological framework. Smith's judicial appointments reflect a calculated effort to maintain a balance of power, suggesting a strategic, ideologically agile approach. This juxtaposition of economic pragmatism with religious fervor presents an intriguing tension worth further exploration.

Campaigns
1817: Connecticut State Governor

Election History

Connecticut gubernatorial election, 1817

13,719 votes (48.10%)

Loss

Winner: Oliver Wolcott Jr.

1816: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

Connecticut gubernatorial election, 1816

11,414 votes (52.13%)

Win
1815: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1815 Connecticut gubernatorial election

8,176 votes (59.27%)

Win
1814: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1814 Connecticut gubernatorial election

9,415 votes (72.87%)

Win
1813: Connecticut State Governor
ELECTED

Election History

1813 Connecticut gubernatorial election

11,893 votes (59.12%)

Win