Theodore Gaillard Hunt facts for kids

Theodore Gaillard Hunt (born October 23, 1805 – died November 15, 1893) was an important figure in American politics. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for the state of Louisiana. He was part of the Whig Party and later the American (Know-Nothing) Party.

The Life of Theodore Hunt

Theodore Hunt was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He had a long career in public service. He worked as a lawyer and held several important jobs in Louisiana.

Early Career and Public Service

Before becoming a U.S. Representative, Hunt was the district attorney for the city of New Orleans. This meant he was the chief prosecutor for the government in that area. He also served for sixteen years in the Louisiana House of Representatives. This is a group of elected officials who make laws for the state of Louisiana. Later in his life, he also worked as a judge.

Time in Congress

Theodore Hunt served one term in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1853 to 1855. During this time, he was a member of the Whig Party. In 1854, he tried to get re-elected to Congress but did not win. He ran as a candidate for the American Party, also known as the Know-Nothing Party.

One notable thing about his time in Congress was his stance on the Kansas-Nebraska Act. This was a very important law that allowed people in new territories to decide if they wanted slavery. Hunt was one of the few politicians from the Southern states who spoke out against this act.

Role in the Civil War

The American Civil War was a difficult time for the United States. Theodore Hunt played a part in it, even though he was against the idea of states leaving the Union.

Confederate Service

At the start of the war, Hunt became a colonel in the Confederate Army. He led the 5th Louisiana Infantry regiment from 1861 to 1862. Later, he was promoted to brigadier general in the Louisiana militia.

Joining the Union Side

When Union forces took control of New Orleans, Hunt made a big decision. He had always been against states leaving the United States. Because of this, he resigned from the Confederate Army. He then joined the Union side and became the Adjutant General of Union Louisiana. This role meant he was a chief administrative officer for the military in the Union-controlled parts of Louisiana.