George Helm Yeaman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Helm Yeaman
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| U.S. Ambassador to Denmark | |
| In office 1865–1870 |
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| Preceded by | Samuel J. Kirkwood |
| Succeeded by | Christopher Columbus Andrews |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Kentucky's 2nd district |
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| In office December 1, 1862 – March 4, 1865 |
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| Preceded by | James S. Jackson |
| Succeeded by | Burwell C. Ritter |
| Member of the Kentucky House of Representatives | |
| In office 1861 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | November 1, 1829 Hardin County, Kentucky |
| Died | February 23, 1908 (aged 78) Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Political party | Unionist |
George Helm Yeaman (born November 1, 1829 – died February 23, 1908) was an important American politician. He served as a U.S. Representative for Kentucky. Later, he became an Ambassador for the United States. He is especially remembered for his key vote to end slavery.
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Who Was George Helm Yeaman?
George Helm Yeaman was born in Hardin County, Kentucky. This was on November 1, 1829. He studied law and became a lawyer in 1852. He started his law practice in Owensboro, Kentucky.
He also served as a judge in Daviess County in 1854. In 1861, he became a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives. This was a state-level political role.
A Voice in Congress
Yeaman was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He represented Kentucky as a "Unionist." This meant he supported keeping the United States together during the American Civil War. He served in Congress from December 1, 1862, to March 3, 1865.
One of his most important actions was his vote for the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. This amendment was a big step. It officially ended slavery across the entire United States. His vote was very important for it to pass. After this, he tried to be reelected but was not successful.
Representing America Abroad
After his time in Congress, George Yeaman became a diplomat. He served as the United States Minister to Denmark. This means he was America's top representative in Denmark. He held this important job from 1865 to 1870.
After leaving Denmark, he moved to New York City. There, he taught about constitutional law. He lectured at Columbia College. He also led the Medico-Legal Society of New York.
His Legacy and Later Life
George Helm Yeaman passed away in Jersey City, New Jersey. This was on February 23, 1908. He was buried in Hillside Cemetery in Madison, New Jersey.
His role in history, especially his vote on the Thirteenth Amendment, is still remembered. In the 2012 movie Lincoln, actor Michael Stuhlbarg played George Yeaman.
