John McCandless Thompson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John McCandless Thompson
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 23rd district |
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| In office January 5, 1875 – March 3, 1875 |
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| Preceded by | Ebenezer McJunkin |
| Succeeded by | Alexander G. Cochran |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 26th district |
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| In office March 4, 1877 – March 3, 1879 |
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| Preceded by | James Sheakley |
| Succeeded by | Samuel B. Dick |
John McCandless Thompson (born January 4, 1829 – died September 3, 1903) was an important American politician. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Pennsylvania. He also served in the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives.
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Early Life and Education
John McCandless Thompson was born on January 4, 1829. His family lived near Butler, Pennsylvania. He went to the local schools in his area. Later, he attended the Witherspoon Institute.
After his schooling, John Thompson decided to study law. He worked hard and became a lawyer in 1854. He started his law practice in Butler, Pennsylvania. John also had a brother named William George Thompson.
A Career in Pennsylvania Politics
John Thompson began his political career in his home state. He was elected to the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives. He served there in 1859 and 1860. During one of his terms, he was chosen to be the Speaker. The Speaker leads the meetings and discussions in the House.
Serving His Country
During the American Civil War, John Thompson joined the Union Army. He served as a major. Later, he became a lieutenant colonel. He was part of the One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. This shows his dedication to his country during a difficult time.
After the war, John Thompson continued to be involved in politics. He was chosen as a delegate to the 1868 Republican National Convention. At this convention, political parties choose their candidates for president.
Representing Pennsylvania in Congress
John Thompson was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. He was a Republican. He first joined the Forty-third Congress. This happened when he filled a spot left open by Ebenezer McJunkin.
Later, he was elected again to the Forty-fifth Congress. He served another term representing Pennsylvania. However, he decided not to run for re-election in 1878.
After his time in Congress, John Thompson went back to being a lawyer. He continued his law practice in Butler. He passed away in Butler in 1903. He was buried in the Butler Cemetery.
