Caesar A. Rodney facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Caesar A. Rodney
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| U. S. Senator from Delaware | |
| In office January 10, 1822 – January 29, 1823 |
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| Preceded by | Outerbridge Horsey |
| Succeeded by | Thomas Clayton |
| U. S. Representative from Delaware 2nd at-large |
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| In office March 4, 1821 – January 24, 1822 |
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| Preceded by | Willard Hall |
| Succeeded by | Daniel Rodney |
| U.S. Attorney General | |
| In office January 20, 1807 – December 5, 1811 |
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| Preceded by | John Breckinridge |
| Succeeded by | William Pinkney |
| U. S. Representative from Delaware at-large |
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| In office March 4, 1803 – March 3, 1805 |
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| Preceded by | James A. Bayard, Sr. |
| Succeeded by | James M. Broom |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 4, 1772 Wilmington, Delaware |
| Died | June 10, 1824 (aged 52) Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Political party | Democratic-Republican |
| Spouse | Susan Hunn |
| Residences | Wilmington, Delaware |
| Alma mater | University of Pennsylvania |
| Profession | lawyer |
Caesar Augustus Rodney (born January 4, 1772 – died June 10, 1824) was an American lawyer and politician from Wilmington, Delaware. He was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. This party was one of the first major political parties in the United States. Rodney held many important jobs in the government. He served in the Delaware state government. He was also a U.S. Representative for Delaware. Later, he became a U.S. Senator for Delaware. One of his most important roles was U.S. Attorney General. This job meant he was the chief lawyer for the U.S. government. He also served as a U.S. Minister (like an ambassador) to Argentina. Caesar Augustus Rodney was the nephew of Caesar Rodney. His uncle was famous for signing the Declaration of Independence. You can even see his uncle on the Delaware state quarter.
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Who Was Caesar Augustus Rodney?
Caesar Augustus Rodney was a very important person in early American politics. He was born in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1772. He grew up to become a skilled lawyer and a dedicated public servant. His career showed how people helped shape the new United States government.
Early Life and Education
Caesar Augustus Rodney was born into a well-known family in Delaware. His uncle, also named Caesar Rodney, was a hero of the American Revolution. He signed the Declaration of Independence. Young Caesar Augustus went to the University of Pennsylvania. There, he studied law and prepared for his future career. After finishing his studies, he became a lawyer. He started practicing law in Delaware.
Starting in Politics
Rodney began his political journey in his home state. He was elected to the Delaware General Assembly. This was Delaware's state legislature. It was a good way for him to learn about lawmaking. Soon after, he moved to national politics. In 1803, he was elected as a U.S. Representative for Delaware. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for two years.
A Top Lawyer for the U.S.
One of Rodney's most significant roles was U.S. Attorney General. President Thomas Jefferson chose him for this job in 1807. As Attorney General, Rodney was the main legal advisor to the President and the government. He helped make sure laws were followed correctly. He continued in this role when James Madison became President. He served as Attorney General until 1811.
Serving in Congress Again
After his time as Attorney General, Rodney returned to Congress. He was elected again as a U.S. Representative in 1821. He served for a short time before being chosen for an even higher position. In 1822, he became a U.S. Senator from Delaware. This meant he represented his state in the U.S. Senate. He worked on important national issues during this period.
Diplomat to South America
In 1823, President James Monroe appointed Rodney as the U.S. Minister to Argentina. This was a very important diplomatic job. His mission was to help build good relationships between the United States and the new countries in South America. These countries had recently become independent from Spain. Rodney traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina, to take up his post. He worked to strengthen ties and promote trade.
Legacy
Caesar Augustus Rodney passed away in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1824. He died while serving his country as a diplomat. He is remembered as a dedicated public servant. He held many key positions in the early U.S. government. His career shows a lifetime of commitment to law and politics. He helped shape the young nation during its early years.
Images for kids
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This monument is at the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Buenos Aires. It honors Caesar Augustus Rodney. It says he was the first Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States to Argentina.
