James K. Edsall facts for kids

James Kirtland Edsall (born May 10, 1831 – died June 19, 1892) was an American lawyer and politician. He held important roles in government, including serving as the Attorney General for the state of Illinois.

Early Life and Education

James Kirtland Edsall was born in a town called Windham, in Greene County, New York. He decided to study law and became a lawyer in New York in 1852. This meant he was officially allowed to practice law.

Edsall worked as a lawyer in several different cities. He practiced law in Plattsburgh, New York, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and St. Paul, Minnesota.

Moving West and Early Politics

In 1854, James Edsall moved to Leavenworth, which was then part of the Kansas Territory. He continued his law practice there. During this time, Kansas was going through a difficult period known as Bleeding Kansas. This was a time of serious conflict and violence over whether Kansas would become a state where slavery was allowed or forbidden.

Edsall was part of a group called the Topeka Free Soil group. He also helped write the state's constitution during the Kansas Constitutional Convention. This was a big step in shaping the future of Kansas.

Political Career in Illinois

In 1857, Edsall moved to Dixon, Illinois, where he kept working as a lawyer. He soon became involved in local politics.

Mayor of Dixon

In 1864, the people of Dixon elected James Edsall to be their mayor. As mayor, he was the leader of the city government.

Illinois State Senator

Later, in 1871, Edsall was elected to the Illinois State Senate. This meant he helped make laws for the entire state of Illinois. He was a member of the Republican Party.

Illinois Attorney General

From 1873 to 1881, Edsall served as the Illinois Attorney General. This is a very important job. The Attorney General is the chief legal officer for the state. They act as the state's lawyer, giving legal advice to the government and representing the state in court.

Later Life

In 1878, James Edsall moved to Chicago, Illinois. After he finished his term as Attorney General in 1881, he continued to practice law in Chicago.

James Kirtland Edsall passed away in 1892 at his home in Chicago. His son, Samuel Cook Edsall, also became a notable figure, serving as a bishop in the Episcopal Church.