Nathaniel Prentice Banks

Republican Representative of Massachusetts's 5th district

Congresses Served

House Terms

January 30, 1816 (78 years old)

Birthday

September 1, 1894

Death

Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and held significant military commands, including the Army of the Gulf and the Department of the Shenandoah.
Transitioned from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party due to his abolitionist views, becoming a prominent political figure in Massachusetts.
Elected as the 21st Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives after a record-breaking election process that took 133 ballots over two months.
Served as Governor of Massachusetts, where he took actions to support the antislavery movement, including the dismissal of a judge who enforced the Fugitive Slave Law.
Involved in early Reconstruction efforts in Louisiana, where he attempted to establish a new state government and promote education for African Americans.
Faced criticism for military failures during the Civil War, particularly in the Shenandoah Valley and the Red River Campaign, which affected his reputation.
Returned to Congress after the war, where he supported Manifest Destiny, the Alaska Purchase, and women’s suffrage, while also navigating the political landscape of Reconstruction.
Experienced a decline in mental health in his later years, which impacted his political career and effectiveness.
Recognized posthumously with various honors, including statues and locations named in his memory.