Joseph Lane began his career in public service, holding various positions in the Indiana House of Representatives and State Senate. He gained military experience during the Mexican-American War, rising to the rank of brigadier general and participating in significant battles. After his military career, Lane was appointed governor of the Oregon Territory, where he initiated the first census and managed Native American affairs, including overseeing the trial of Cayuse Indians involved in the Whitman Massacre. He later served as a U.S. Senator from Oregon and was nominated for vice president by pro-slavery Democrats in 1860. Throughout his career, Lane demonstrated leadership in both military and civilian capacities, though his views and actions regarding Native Americans and slavery were controversial.

Joseph Lane's political identity is marked by a complex blend of military prowess and deeply controversial stances on race and governance. His military career, which includes significant roles in the Mexican-American War and violent campaigns against Native Americans, juxtaposes with his administrative duties as the first Superintendent of Indian Affairs in Oregon. Lane's personal actions, such as enslaving individuals despite it being illegal in Oregon, further complicate his ideological positioning. His nomination for vice president by pro-slavery Democrats in 1860 underscores a contentious alignment with extreme positions on race and governance.