John Sergeant Wise
John Sergeant Wise
Full Name and Common Aliases
John Sergeant Wise was a notable American lawyer, politician, and historian. He is often referred to by his initials, J.S.W.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 22, 1842, in Wytheville, Virginia, John Sergeant Wise passed away on March 18, 1917, at the age of seventy-four.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Wise was an American of Scottish descent. Throughout his life, he held various professions including lawyer, politician, historian, and journalist.
Early Life and Background
John Sergeant Wise was born in Wytheville, Virginia, to a prominent family. His father, William Henry Harrison Wise, was a notable lawyer, judge, and politician who served as a U.S. Marshal for the state of Virginia. Growing up in a family that valued education and public service, John was instilled with a strong sense of duty and responsibility from an early age.
As a young man, Wise pursued higher education at Hampden-Sydney College before transferring to Washington and Lee University (then known as Washington College) where he graduated in 1862. His academic pursuits were interrupted by the American Civil War, during which he served as a captain in the Confederate States Army.
Major Accomplishments
John Sergeant Wise made significant contributions in various fields throughout his life:
As a lawyer, he argued several notable cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and was appointed as a judge on the Virginia Circuit Court.
In politics, Wise served as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 1873 to 1881 and later as a U.S. Representative for Virginia's Sixth Congressional District from 1899 to 1903.
As a historian, he authored several books, including "The End of an Era" (1900), which chronicled the decline of the Old South.Notable Works or Actions
Wise was also a skilled writer and journalist. He contributed articles to various publications, including The Century Magazine, and served as a correspondent for The New York Times during the Spanish-American War.
In addition to his literary endeavors, Wise was an accomplished traveler who explored parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia. His experiences abroad greatly influenced his writing and perspective on global issues.
Impact and Legacy
John Sergeant Wise's impact extends far beyond his individual accomplishments:
As a lawyer and judge, he contributed significantly to the development of American jurisprudence.
In politics, his service helped shape policy and legislation at both the state and federal levels.
Through his writings, he provided valuable insights into the history and culture of the Old South.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John Sergeant Wise is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
1. Insightful Writing Style: His engaging writing style allowed readers to connect with him on a personal level.
2. Historical Significance: As a prominent figure in American history, his contributions continue to be studied and referenced by scholars today.
3. Enduring Legacy: Wise's influence can still be seen in modern politics, law, and literature.
Overall, John Sergeant Wise was a multifaceted individual who left an indelible mark on American society. His remarkable life and achievements make him a fascinating subject for study and reflection.
Quotes by John Sergeant Wise
And let me tell you, you boys of America, that there is no higher inspiration to any man to be a good man, a good citizen, and a good son, brother, or father, than the knowledge that you come from honest blood.
In all her history, from the formation of the federal government until the hour of secession, no year stands out more prominently than the year 1858 as evidencing the national patriotism of Virginia.
Father had notions about manhood suffrage, public schools, the education and the elevation of the masses, and the gradual emancipation of the slaves, that did not suit the uncompromising views of people in places like Richmond.
This and many others only confirmed me in the opinion, planted when I saw the sale of Martha Ann, and growing steadily thereafter, that slavery was an accursed business, and that the sooner my people were relieved of it, the better.
In such a condition of affairs, the practical difference between the abolitionist and the sympathizer, to the man who lost his slave and could not recover it, was very nebulous.
The first American ancestor of our name was a younger son of these old Devonshire people, and came to the Virginia colony in the reign of Charles the First.
In the year 1857, passing through Washington on our return from the annual visit to Philadelphia, I had the distinguished honor of visiting a President for the first time.
In those days, slavery was not looked upon, even in Quaker Philadelphia, with the shudder and abhorrence one feels towards it now.
Even if my mother had no qualms of conscience concerning ownership of negroes, her sense of duty carried her far beyond the mere supplying of their physical needs, or requiring that they render faithful service.