Cornelius Leary facts for kids

Cornelius Lawrence Ludlow Leary (born October 22, 1813 – died March 21, 1893) was an American politician from Maryland. He was known for serving in the U.S. Congress during an important time in American history.

Early Life and Education

Cornelius Leary was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He went to public schools there. After finishing school, he attended St. Mary's College in Baltimore, graduating in 1833.

After college, he moved to Louisville, Kentucky. However, he returned to Baltimore in 1837.

Starting a Career

Leary decided to study law. He worked hard and became a lawyer in 1840. He then started his own law practice in Baltimore.

Early Political Career

Leary became interested in politics. He joined the Whig Party, which was a major political party at the time. He was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates, which is part of Maryland's state government. He served there in 1838 and 1839.

Later, in 1856, he was chosen as a presidential elector. This meant he was one of the people who officially voted for the president. He was part of the American Party ticket, which won in Maryland that year.

Serving in Congress

During a very challenging time for the United States, Leary was elected to the Thirty-seventh Congress. He was a Unionist, meaning he supported keeping the United States together during the American Civil War. He served in Congress from March 4, 1861, to March 3, 1863.

After his time in Congress, Leary went back to being a lawyer in Baltimore. He passed away in Baltimore in 1893 and was buried in Lorraine Cemetery.