Sidney Breese

Democrat Senator of Illinois

Senator
Illinois
December 4, 1843 - March 3, 1849

Congresses Served

Senate Terms

January 1, 1800 (78 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1878

Death

Early Illinois pioneer and influential figure in the state’s development
Served as Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, U.S. Senator, and Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives
Known as the “father of the Illinois Central Railroad” for his efforts in lobbying for its creation
Born into a prominent family with connections to notable historical figures
Educated at Hamilton College and Union College, graduating with high honors
Married Eliza Morrison and had fourteen children, with several sons serving in the military
Began his career in Illinois as Assistant Secretary of State and was admitted to the Illinois bar
Served as Postmaster of Kaskaskia and United States Attorney for Illinois
Volunteered for military service during the Black Hawk War, achieving the rank of Major
Played a key role in the legal and political development of Illinois, including drafting the first books published in the state and opposing tactics during the Mexican–American War
Advocated for the annexation of Texas and supported the Mexican–American War
Opposed the Oregon Treaty, advocating for expansion to the 54th parallel
Cast the deciding vote for the Tariff Act of 1846
After failing to secure renomination to the U.S. Senate, continued to influence Illinois politics and law, including returning to the Illinois Supreme Court
Proposed constitutional amendments during the Civil War aimed at preserving the Union and states’ rights
Authored works on Illinois history and the Pacific Railroad
Remembered for his philanthropy, legal acumen, and contributions to Illinois’ infrastructure and legal system
The town of Breese, Illinois, is named in his honor