Robert Smith (cabinet) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Smith
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| 2nd United States Secretary of the Navy | |
| In office July 27, 1801 – March 4, 1809 |
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| Preceded by | Benjamin Stoddert |
| Succeeded by | Paul Hamilton |
| 5th United States Attorney General | |
| In office March 3, 1805 – August 6, 1805 |
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| Preceded by | Levi Lincoln, Sr. |
| Succeeded by | John Breckinridge |
| 6th United States Secretary of State | |
| In office March 6, 1809 – April 1, 1811 |
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| President | James Madison |
| Preceded by | James Madison |
| Succeeded by | James Monroe |
| Personal details | |
| Born | November 3, 1757 Lancaster, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | November 26, 1842 (aged 85) Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic-Republican |
| Alma mater | Princeton University |
| Profession | Politician, Lawyer |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | Continental Army |
| Battles/wars | American Revolutionary War |
Robert Smith (born November 3, 1757 – died November 26, 1842) was an important American politician. He served in the cabinets of two early U.S. presidents. He was the second United States Secretary of the Navy and the sixth United States Secretary of State. Robert Smith was also the brother of Senator Samuel Smith.
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Robert Smith's Early Life and Education
Robert Smith was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1757. He grew up in a time when the United States was just forming. He went to Princeton University, which was called the College of New Jersey back then. He graduated in 1781.
After college, Smith became a lawyer. He also served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This was a very important time for the new country.
Serving the United States
Robert Smith held several high-level jobs in the U.S. government. He worked for Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
From 1801 to 1809, Robert Smith was the United States Secretary of the Navy. This means he was in charge of the U.S. Navy. His job was to help build and manage the country's naval forces. This was important for protecting American ships and trade.
Attorney General
For a short time in 1805, Smith also served as the United States Attorney General. This role involves being the chief legal advisor to the government. He helped make sure the laws were followed.
Secretary of State
From 1809 to 1811, Robert Smith became the United States Secretary of State. This is one of the most important jobs in the government. The Secretary of State handles how the U.S. deals with other countries. Smith worked under President James Madison during this time.
Later Life and Legacy
After leaving his government roles, Robert Smith continued to be involved in public life. He passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1842, at the age of 85. He is remembered for his long career serving the young United States. His work helped shape the country's early government and its relationships with other nations.
