William H. Seward Quotes

A collection of quotes by William H. Seward.

William H. Seward (1801-1872) was an American politician and statesman best known for his role as Secretary of State during the administration of President Abraham Lincoln. Born in Florida, New York, Seward studied law and began his political career as a member of the Whig Party. He later became a prominent figure in the newly formed Republican Party.

Seward served as the Governor of New York from 1839 to 1842 and then represented the state in the United States Senate from 1849 to 1861. Throughout his political career, he was an outspoken opponent of slavery and was instrumental in the formation of the Republican Party's anti-slavery platform.

As Secretary of State from 1861 to 1869, Seward played a crucial role in shaping American foreign policy during the Civil War and Reconstruction era. He negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia, known as "Seward's Folly" at the time but later considered a tremendous acquisition. Seward also worked towards preventing European interference in the American Civil War and supported the Union's war effort.

Despite surviving an assassination attempt the night Lincoln was assassinated, Seward continued to serve as Secretary of State under President Andrew Johnson. He played a part in the negotiation of the Treaty of Washington with Britain and helped resolve diplomatic disputes with other countries.

Overall, William H. Seward's political career was marked by his strong anti-slavery stance and his significant contributions to American foreign policy during a pivotal period in the nation's history. He passed away in 1872, leaving a lasting legacy as a dedicated statesman.