William H. Seward

Full Name: William H. Seward
Nationality:

Profession: US Secretary Of State
Why Famous: Secretary of State for the Union during the American Civil War, Seward was widely praised for his work in this role and in the same position for the United States until 1869.

A leading candidate for the 1860 presidential nomination, Seward's outspoken opposition to slavery and his support for immigrants helped him lose the position to Abraham Lincoln, who selected him as Secretary of State.

Seriously wounded by Lewis Powell as part of the same plot that killed Lincoln, Seward continued in his role under Andrew Johnson. In 1867 he finalized the Alaska Purchase which added 586,412 square miles to the United States.

Born: May 16, 1801
Birthplace: Florida, New York, USA
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: October 10, 1872 (aged 71)