Jeremiah Sullivan Black was born on January 10, 1810 in a small town in Pennsylvania. He was the son of U.S. Representative Henry Black, and from a young age, he showed great intelligence and ambition. Despite coming from a modest background, he was determined to educate himself and make something of his life.
Black's early education was limited, but he was a voracious reader and taught himself various subjects. He displayed a remarkable aptitude for the law, and at the age of 18, he passed the Pennsylvania Bar exam, becoming one of the youngest lawyers in the state's history.
Black quickly established himself as a successful attorney, gaining a reputation for his sharp legal mind and persuasive arguments. He soon found himself drawn to politics, where he believed he could make a greater impact on society.
In 1857, Black was appointed as the U.S. Attorney General, a position he held for four years. During his time in office, he gained national recognition for his handling of legal matters and his commitment to upholding the law.
In 1860, Black was appointed as the twenty-third U.S. Secretary of State under President James Buchanan. However, his tenure was short-lived, as the country plunged into the Civil War soon after his appointment. Black actively opposed the Senate's plan for Reconstruction after the war, believing it was unconstitutional and would lead to further division among the states.
Black became a vocal critic of President Andrew Johnson's Reconstruction policies and even wrote the message vetoing the Reconstruction Act. His steadfast dedication to upholding the law and preserving the integrity of the nation's institutions made him a controversial figure in the political landscape.
After his time as Secretary of State, Black returned to his legal practice and continued to be involved in politics. He served as the twenty-fourth U.S. Attorney General and remained a prominent voice in legal and political circles for many years.
Jeremiah S. Black's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the rule of law and the principles of justice. Despite facing criticism and opposition, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and fought tirelessly for what he believed was right.