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Michael Patrick O'Connor
Michael P. O'Connor (South Carolina Congressman).jpg
Frontispiece of 1882's Memorial Addresses on the Life and Character of Michael P. O'Connor, a Representative from South Carolina
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from South Carolina's 2nd district
In office
March 4, 1879 – April 26, 1881
Preceded by Richard H. Cain
Succeeded by Edmund W.M. Mackey
Member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from St. Philip's and St. Michael's Parish
In office
November 22, 1858 – December 23, 1864
Personal details
Born September 29, 1831
Beaufort, South Carolina
Died April 26, 1881(1881-04-26) (aged 49)
Charleston, South Carolina
Political party Democratic
Alma mater St. John's College
Profession Attorney, politician
Military service
Allegiance Confederate States of America Confederate States of America
Branch/service  Confederate States Army
Years of service 1861–1865
Rank Lieutenant
Battles/wars American Civil War

Michael Patrick O'Connor (born September 29, 1831 – died April 26, 1881) was an important politician from South Carolina. He served as a U.S. Representative, which means he helped make laws for the country.

Early Life and Education

Michael P. O'Connor was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, on September 29, 1831. He went to public schools as a child. Later, he graduated from St. John's College in Fordham, New York, in 1850.

After college, he decided to study law. He became a lawyer in 1854 and started his own law practice in Charleston, South Carolina.

Service During the Civil War

During the American Civil War, Michael O'Connor joined the Confederate military. He served as a lieutenant in a group called the Lafayette Light Artillery.

Political Career

Michael O'Connor was very involved in politics. He served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1858 to 1866. This is where state laws are made.

He also attended the Democratic National Conventions in 1872 and 1876. These are big meetings where the Democratic Party chooses its candidate for president. Interestingly, he spoke out against states leaving the United States (secession) when he was in the state house.

Running for Congress

Michael O'Connor tried to become a U.S. Representative several times. He ran in 1874 and 1876 but did not win. However, he was successfully elected as a Democrat to the Forty-sixth Congress. His term began on March 4, 1879, and ended on March 3, 1881.

He was also chosen to be a member of the Forty-seventh Congress. Sadly, he passed away on April 26, 1881, in Charleston, South Carolina, before he could serve that term. Another politician, Edmund W.M. Mackey, later took his place. Michael O'Connor was buried in St. Lawrence Cemetery.

External sources

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