David Colbreth Broderick

Democrat Senator of California

Congresses Served

Senate Terms

January 1, 1820 (39 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1859

Death

Moved from New York to California during the Gold Rush.
First cousin of politicians Andrew Kennedy of Indiana and Case Broderick of Kansas.
Died at age 39 from a duel wound.
Served as a Democratic U.S. Senator from California, elected by the legislature.
Acted as Lieutenant Governor of California from 1851 to 1852.
Had political control of San Francisco, which became notorious for municipal corruption under his rule.
Became wealthy through a system of political patronage and corruption.
Led the “Free Soil” faction of the California Democratic Party, opposing the extension of slavery.
Was fatally wounded in a duel with David S. Terry, a former friend and pro-slavery advocate, over political and personal disagreements.
Became a martyr to the anti-slavery cause after his death, which was seen as a political necessity by his supporters.
Honored posthumously with a monument, and his legacy includes places named after him, such as Broderick County in Kansas Territory and Broderick Street in San Francisco.
Portrayed in media, including a television episode of “Death Valley Days” where Carroll O’Connor played Broderick.