[Born 1782. Still living.]
A lawyer, and an active politician in the democratic interest. From 1812
until 1820, a member of the United States Senate, during which time a
keen supporter of the war with England, and, for a short period,
Attorney-General. In 1828, Governor of the State of New York--then
Secretary of State in the cabinet of General Jackson. Vice President in
1832, and during General Jackson’s second term of office. In 1836,
elected President by a large majority. The principal measure of his
administration was the re-establishment of the independent treasury. In
1840, again nominated for the Presidency, but defeated by General
Harrison, the Whig candidate. Since the close of his presidential term
in 1841, Mr. Van Buren has lived in retirement. His popularity was not
so great at the close as at the beginning of his political life.
[By Hiram Powers.]