James Robinson McCormick facts for kids

James Robinson McCormick (born August 1, 1824 – died May 19, 1897) was an important politician from Missouri. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he helped make laws for the country.

He was born near Irondale, Missouri in Washington County. James went to public schools there. Later, he studied medicine at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. In 1849, he graduated from Memphis Medical College in Tennessee. After that, he started working as a doctor in Wayne County, Missouri. In 1850, he moved to Perry County and kept working as a doctor.

Early Career and the Civil War

James McCormick was involved in politics and public service from a young age.

Helping Write the State Rules

In 1861, he was chosen as a delegate for a special meeting. This meeting was called a State constitutional convention. Its job was to write or change the main rules for the state of Missouri.

Serving in the Civil War

During the American Civil War, James McCormick joined the Union Army. He worked as a surgeon, which is a doctor who performs operations. He was part of the Sixth Regiment, Missouri Volunteer Infantry.

In 1862, he also served in the Missouri State Senate. This is a group of elected officials who make laws for the state. But he left his Senate job because of his duties in the Army. By 1863, he became a Brigadier general in the militia. This was a high rank in the state's military forces.

After the War

After the Civil War ended, McCormick moved to Arcadia, Missouri. He went back to working as a doctor. He served in the State Senate again in 1866, but he resigned the next year.

Becoming a U.S. Representative

James McCormick was elected to represent Missouri in the U.S. Congress.

Joining Congress

He was a member of the Democratic Party. In 1867, he was elected as a Representative for Missouri's 3rd congressional district. He took the place of Thomas E. Noell, who had passed away.

Years in Washington D.C.

McCormick was reelected two more times. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives from December 17, 1867, until March 3, 1873. He decided not to run for reelection in 1872.

Later Life

After his time in Congress, James McCormick returned to Missouri.

In 1874, he moved to Farmington, Missouri. There, he continued his work as a doctor. He also started a business selling medicines. James Robinson McCormick passed away in Farmington on May 19, 1897. He was buried in the Masonic Cemetery.