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30 Facts About John McLean

Hannah Speed

Written by Hannah Speed

Published: 15 Dec 2024

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Source: Ktar.com

Who was John McLean? John McLean was a significant figure in American history, known for his roles in law and politics. Born on March 11, 1785, in Morris County, New Jersey, McLean's career spanned various important positions, including U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Ohio Supreme Court Justice, and Postmaster General. His legal opinions, particularly his dissent in the Dred Scott v. Sandford case, showcased his anti-slavery stance and influenced future constitutional amendments. McLean's dedication to public service and justice left a lasting impact on the American legal system. Dive into these 30 fascinating facts to learn more about his life and legacy.

Key Takeaways:

  • John McLean's diverse career path took him from a humble beginning in Ohio to the highest court in the land, leaving a lasting impact on American history and governance.
  • Despite facing challenges, John McLean's unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and public service shaped his influential journey through law, politics, and federal governance.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and Education
02Legal Beginnings
03Political Ascent
04Administrative Roles
05Supreme Court Tenure
06Presidential Aspirations
07Notable Opinions and Cases
08Personal Beliefs and Legacy
09Final Years and Death
10Political Influence
11Diverse Career Path
12McLean's Lasting Impact

Early Life and Education

John McLean's journey began in the late 18th century, navigating through various frontier towns before settling in Ohio. His early experiences shaped his future in law and politics.

  1. Birth and Early Life: Born on March 11, 1785, in Morris County, New Jersey, McLean's family moved frequently, finally settling in Ridgeville, Ohio, in 1797.

  2. Education: McLean received his education in Ohio and graduated from Harvard in 1806, which laid the groundwork for his legal career.

Legal Beginnings

McLean's entry into the legal world started with humble beginnings but quickly escalated as he made significant strides in his career.

  1. Legal Career: Admitted to the bar in 1807, McLean began his legal career in Cincinnati, working in the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas.

  2. Founding of The Western Star: In 1807, he founded The Western Star, a weekly newspaper in Lebanon, Ohio, which he later handed over to his brother in 1810.

Political Ascent

McLean's political career took off with his election to the U.S. House of Representatives, marking the start of his influence in American politics.

  1. Entry into Politics: Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1812, McLean served two terms before resigning to join the Ohio Supreme Court.

  2. Ohio Supreme Court: Elected to the Ohio Supreme Court in 1816, McLean played a crucial role in shaping Ohio's legal landscape until 1822.

Administrative Roles

McLean's career took a significant turn when he moved from judicial roles to administrative positions, impacting federal governance.

  1. Commissioner of the General Land Office: Appointed by President James Monroe in 1822, McLean managed land distribution and policies.

  2. Postmaster General: In 1823, Monroe appointed McLean as Postmaster General, where he oversaw a major expansion of the U.S. Postal Service.

  3. Efficiency and Nonpartisanship: Known for his efficiency and nonpartisanship, McLean streamlined postal operations and reduced costs.

  4. Resignation from Postmaster General: McLean resigned in 1829 due to disagreements with President Andrew Jackson's policies.

Supreme Court Tenure

McLean's most enduring legacy comes from his nearly 32-year tenure on the United States Supreme Court, where he participated in landmark cases.

  1. Appointment to the Supreme Court: Nominated by President Jackson in 1829, McLean was confirmed and took his judicial oath five days later.

  2. Supreme Court Tenure: Serving from 1829 until his death in 1861, McLean was involved in several key decisions.

  3. Dred Scott Decision: McLean's notable dissent in the Dred Scott v. Sandford case argued for the freedom of slaves taken to non-slave states.

  4. Fourteenth Amendment Influence: His dissent in Dred Scott influenced the eventual passage of the Fourteenth Amendment, granting citizenship to former slaves.

Presidential Aspirations

Despite never securing a nomination, McLean was a perennial presidential candidate, reflecting his significant political influence.

  1. Perennial Presidential Candidate: Mentioned at over five nominating conventions, McLean withdrew his name from consideration multiple times.

  2. Whig Party Affiliation: In 1833, McLean joined the Whigs, distancing himself from Jackson and the Democrats.

Notable Opinions and Cases

McLean's judicial opinions often reflected his commitment to justice and equality, even when they were not the majority view.

  1. Wheaton v. Peters: In this 1834 copyright case, McLean ruled that no reporter could hold a copyright in Supreme Court opinions.

  2. Regulation of Slave Catchers: McLean was the sole dissenter in an 1842 decision, advocating for state regulation of slave catchers.

Personal Beliefs and Legacy

McLean's personal beliefs, particularly his anti-slavery stance, were evident throughout his career, influencing his judicial decisions and legacy.

  1. Anti-Slavery Views: Despite owning a slave according to the 1820 census, McLean's anti-slavery views were shaped by his Methodist upbringing.

  2. Family and Personal Life: McLean balanced his political and judicial responsibilities with his family life, having children and a supportive spouse.

  3. Legacy in Law: Though not leaving a lasting mark on the law, McLean's commitment to justice and equality was unwavering.

Final Years and Death

McLean's final years were marked by continued service on the Supreme Court until his death in 1861.

  1. Death and Burial: McLean died on April 4, 1861, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and was buried there. Justice Noah Haynes Swayne succeeded him.

  2. Influence on Governance: Beyond the judiciary, McLean's work as Postmaster General and Land Office Commissioner shaped federal administrative structures.

  3. Support for Calhoun: As Postmaster General, McLean supported Vice President John C. Calhoun, despite Calhoun's estrangement from President Adams.

  4. Jackson's Offer: Jackson offered McLean the posts of Secretary of War and Secretary of the Navy, both of which he declined in favor of the Supreme Court.

  5. Cabinet Office Promotion: McLean elevated the Postmaster Generalship to a cabinet office, reflecting his administrative efficiency.

Political Influence

McLean's political influence extended beyond his judicial roles, impacting national politics and governance.

  1. Anti-Masonic Convention: In 1831, McLean was mentioned as a presidential candidate at the Anti-Masonic Convention in Baltimore.

  2. Ohio Newspapers Support: In 1833, several Ohio newspapers advocated for McLean as a presidential candidate, solidifying his position within the Whig Party.

Diverse Career Path

McLean's career spanned various roles, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to public service.

  1. Diverse Career Path: McLean's roles in Congress, the Ohio Supreme Court, the General Land Office, and the Supreme Court reflect his commitment to public service.

  2. Historical Significance: McLean's contributions to American history are multifaceted, influencing both the legal landscape and federal governance.

McLean's Lasting Impact

John McLean's life was a testament to dedication and service. From his early days in Ohio to his influential role on the United States Supreme Court, McLean left a significant mark on American history. His dissent in the Dred Scott case showcased his commitment to justice and equality, influencing future legal frameworks like the Fourteenth Amendment. As Postmaster General, he modernized the postal system, proving his administrative prowess. Despite never securing a presidential nomination, his name was a constant in political circles, reflecting his widespread respect. McLean's diverse career, spanning law, politics, and administration, highlights his adaptability and unwavering principles. His legacy, though sometimes overshadowed by contemporaries, remains a crucial chapter in the story of American governance and law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was John McLean known for?
John McLean made his mark as a significant figure in American history, primarily recognized for his long tenure as a Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. His contributions to legal thought and his stance on various pivotal cases, especially those concerning issues of slavery, have cemented his legacy.
Did John McLean ever run for President?
Yes, indeed! McLean was considered a potential candidate for the presidency several times. Despite never clinching the nomination, his name was often floated in political circles, especially within the Whig and later the Republican parties, as a strong contender.
How long did John McLean serve on the Supreme Court?
Serving for an impressive span, McLean was on the Supreme Court bench for over three decades. His tenure, from 1829 until his death in 1861, was marked by his involvement in some of the most consequential decisions of the era.
What was McLean's stance on slavery?
He's notably remembered for his strong anti-slavery views. McLean's dissenting opinions in key cases, like the infamous Dred Scott decision, highlighted his opposition to the spread of slavery and his support for abolitionist principles.
Can you tell me about John McLean's early life?
Born into a modest setting, McLean's early life was characterized by hard work and a keen pursuit of education. Despite the challenges of frontier life, he managed to study law and quickly ascended the ranks of Ohio's legal and political scene, setting the stage for his illustrious career.
What impact did McLean have on the Supreme Court?
His impact was profound, shaping the Court's approach to several critical issues of his time. McLean's opinions often reflected his deep commitment to justice and liberty, influencing the Court's deliberations and its jurisprudence on matters of national importance.
How did John McLean's career end?
McLean's distinguished career came to an end with his passing in 1861. His death marked the close of a significant chapter in the Supreme Court's history, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the principles of the Constitution and the cause of freedom.

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