James A. Connolly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James A. Connolly
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois's 17th district |
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| In office March 4, 1895 – March 3, 1899 |
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| Preceded by | Edward Lane |
| Succeeded by | Ben F. Caldwell |
| Member of the Illinois House of Representatives | |
| In office 1872-1876 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | March 8, 1843 Newark, New Jersey |
| Died | December 15, 1914 (aged 71) Springfield, Illinois |
| Political party | Republican |
James Austin Connolly (born March 8, 1843 – died December 15, 1914) was an important politician from Illinois. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he was a member of the U.S. Congress. He also worked as a lawyer and was a soldier during the American Civil War.
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Who Was James A. Connolly?
James Austin Connolly had an interesting life. He was born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1843. His family had Irish roots. When he was about seven years old, his family moved to Chesterville, Ohio.
Early Life and Becoming a Lawyer
In Ohio, James went to local schools and also attended Selby Academy. He was very smart and even worked as an assistant clerk for the State Senate in 1858 and 1859. He decided to study law, which is the study of rules and laws. By 1859, he became a lawyer and started working in Mount Gilead, Ohio. In 1861, he moved to Charleston, Illinois, and continued his law practice there.
Serving in the Civil War
When the American Civil War began, James Connolly chose to serve his country. He joined the Union Army in 1862 as a private soldier. He was part of the 123rd Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment. James was a brave soldier and quickly rose through the ranks. He became a captain, then a major, and finally a brevet lieutenant colonel.
His Time in Politics
After the war, James Connolly began a long career in politics and public service.
Starting in Illinois Government
From 1872 to 1876, James was a member of the Illinois House of Representatives. This is part of the state government that makes laws for Illinois.
Working as a U.S. Attorney
Later, he was chosen to be the United States Attorney for the southern part of Illinois. This job meant he represented the U.S. government in legal cases. He held this position from 1876 to 1885, and again from 1889 to 1893.
Becoming a U.S. Congressman
James Connolly was a member of the Republican Party. He ran for the U.S. Congress in 1886 but did not win that time. In 1888, he was nominated again but decided not to run.
Finally, he was elected to the U.S. Congress in 1894. He served two terms, from March 4, 1895, to March 3, 1899. As a U.S. Representative, he helped make laws for the entire country. He chose not to run for re-election in 1898.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time in Congress, James Connolly went back to working as a lawyer in Springfield, Illinois. He passed away on December 15, 1914, in Springfield. He was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
