Edwin Stanton: Secretary of War During the Civil War

Edwin Stanton (1814-1869) was an American lawyer and politician who served as the Secretary of War under President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. He played a crucial role in organizing and directing the Union war effort and was known for his forceful personality and uncompromising commitment to the Union cause. Stanton was also involved in the prosecution of the conspirators involved in the assassination of President Lincoln. He later served as a member of President Andrew Johnson's cabinet but clashed with the president over Reconstruction policies. Stanton was eventually removed from office by President Johnson, which led to a major political crisis and an unsuccessful attempt to impeach Johnson. Stanton died shortly after leaving office in 1869.