Whiting Griswold facts for kids

Whiting Griswold (born November 12, 1814 – died October 28, 1874) was an important American lawyer and politician. He was known for being an abolitionist, which means he worked to end slavery. Griswold served in the government of Massachusetts and helped elect Abraham Lincoln as president.

Whiting Griswold's Life and Work

Whiting Griswold was born in Buckland, Massachusetts. He grew up and later became a very respected person in his community. He went to Amherst College and graduated in 1838. This education helped him prepare for his future career.

Becoming a Lawyer

After college, Griswold decided to study law. In 1842, he officially became a lawyer. This happened in Northampton, Massachusetts. Being a lawyer meant he could help people with legal problems. He could also argue cases in court.

Serving in Government

Whiting Griswold was also a politician. This means he helped make decisions for the public. He served in the government of Massachusetts in several important roles:

• He was a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He served there from 1848 to 1850. This group helps create laws for the state.
• He was also a member of the Massachusetts Senate. He served in the Senate from 1851 to 1852. The Senate is another part of the state's law-making body.
• In 1853, he was part of the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention of 1853. This was a special meeting to discuss and change the state's constitution. The constitution is like a rulebook for the government.

Fighting Against Slavery

One of the most important things about Whiting Griswold was his work as an abolitionist. An abolitionist was someone who believed that slavery should be ended. During the 1800s, slavery was a big issue in the United States. Griswold was part of the Free Soil Party, which opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories. Later, he joined the Democratic Party.

In 1864, Griswold played a special role in American history. He was a presidential elector for Massachusetts. This meant he was chosen to cast a vote for president. He voted for Abraham Lincoln, who was running for president at the time. Lincoln was also against slavery and led the country during the American Civil War.

Whiting Griswold passed away on October 28, 1874, when he was 59 years old. He is remembered for his dedication to law, public service, and the fight for freedom.