James Madison Leach facts for kids
James Madison Leach (born January 17, 1815 – died June 1, 1891) was an important politician from North Carolina. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he was a member of the U.S. Congress. He also served in the state government of North Carolina.
This page is about the politician James Madison Leach. If you are looking for other people named James Leach, please see James Leach (disambiguation).
Contents
Early Life and Education
James Madison Leach was born on January 17, 1815. His family's home was called "Lansdowne" in Randolph County, North Carolina. He went to local schools and later attended Caldwell Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina.
In 1838, he graduated from the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point. After that, he studied law. He became a lawyer in 1842 and started his law practice in Lexington, North Carolina.
Political Career in North Carolina
Leach began his political career in North Carolina. He served in the State House of Commons from 1848 to 1858. This was a part of the state's government.
In 1856, he was a presidential elector for the American Party. This meant he was chosen to cast a vote for president.
Serving in the U.S. Congress
Leach was elected to the Thirty-sixth Congress. He served as a representative from March 4, 1859, to March 3, 1861. During this time, he was part of the Opposition Party.
Military Service During the Civil War
During the American Civil War, James Madison Leach joined the Confederate Army. He was a captain and later a lieutenant colonel in the 21st North Carolina Infantry.
He fought in many early battles with General Stonewall Jackson. This included the Valley Campaign. He also served in the Army of Northern Virginia. He took part in the Peninsula Campaign and other important battles. One of these was the Battle of Gettysburg, where his regiment attacked Cemetery Hill.
After his military service, he became a member of the Confederate States Congress. He served there in 1864 and 1865.
Later Political Life
After the Civil War, Leach continued his political work. He served in the North Carolina State Senate in 1865 and 1866. He returned to the State Senate again in 1879.
He was later elected to the Forty-second and Forty-third Congresses. As a member of the Democratic Party, he served from March 4, 1871, to March 3, 1875.
Death
James Madison Leach passed away in Lexington, North Carolina, on June 1, 1891. He was buried in Hopewell Cemetery, which is near Trinity, North Carolina.
