John White Geary Quotes

A collection of quotes by John White Geary.

John White Geary (1819-1873) was an American politician, military leader, and civil engineer. Born on December 30, 1819, in Pennsylvania, Geary had a diverse career that spanned both the military and political spheres.

Geary initially gained prominence as a civil engineer, working on various infrastructure projects in Pennsylvania. However, his career took a different direction when he joined the military. He served in the Mexican-American War, where he earned recognition for his bravery and was appointed as a brevet colonel. Geary's military career continued during the American Civil War, where he fought for the Union. He notably commanded the Pennsylvania Reserves Division and played a pivotal role in several major battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg.

After the war, Geary turned his attention to politics. He served as the mayor of San Francisco, becoming the first mayor elected by popular vote in 1850. He also played a vital role in the economic development of the city during his tenure. Geary later went on to serve as the territorial governor of Kansas and the governor of Pennsylvania.

Throughout his life, Geary exhibited a tireless dedication to public service and a commitment to upholding democratic values. He passed away in 1873, leaving behind a legacy defined by his contributions to both the military and political fields.