John W. A. Sanford Jr. facts for kids
John William Augustine Sanford Jr. (born November 3, 1825 – died August 7, 1913) was an important figure in Alabama. He worked as a lawyer and served as the Attorney General of Alabama three times. He also held a position as a clerk for the Alabama Supreme Court. Sanford Jr. was born in Milledgeville, Georgia. His father was also named John W. A. Sanford.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John W. A. Sanford Jr. received a good education. He graduated from Oglethorpe University in 1844 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later, in 1851, he earned a Bachelor of Law degree from Harvard University. He was allowed to practice law in 1852. Much later, in 1878, he received another law degree (LL.D.) from the University of Alabama.
Public Service and Legal Career
Sanford Jr. had a long career in public service. He worked as a lawyer, helping people with legal issues. He also served as a clerk for the Alabama Supreme Court. This role involved managing important court documents and records. His most notable role was serving as the Attorney General of Alabama for three terms. The Attorney General is the chief legal officer for the state. They provide legal advice to the government and represent the state in court.
Political Views and War Service
John W. A. Sanford Jr. was a member of the Democratic Party. He supported the idea of states leaving the United States. This idea, called secession, became very strong after Abraham Lincoln was elected president. Sanford Jr. also served as an officer in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
Family Life
On March 7, 1860, John W. A. Sanford Jr. married Sallie Maria Taylor in Montgomery, Alabama. Sallie was the daughter of Colonel William H. Taylor. They had two children: a daughter named Valine and a son named John W. A. Sanford III. Their son, John W. A. Sanford III, later married Minnie Smoot. John W. A. Sanford Jr. and Sallie also had several grandchildren.
Later Years
In his later life, John W. A. Sanford Jr. continued to be involved in public matters. He attended the Alabama Constitutional Convention in 1901. This was an important meeting where leaders discussed and wrote new rules for the state's government.
