Rufus Choate
Rufus Choate
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Rufus Choate was born on October 1, 1799, in Ipswich, Massachusetts. He is often referred to as "The Great Master of Argument" due to his exceptional oratory skills.
Birth and Death Dates
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October 1, 1799 – July 13, 1859
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American, Lawyer, Politician, Professor
Rufus Choate was a multi-faceted individual who excelled in various fields. He was a skilled lawyer, politician, and professor, known for his exceptional public speaking abilities.
Early Life and Background
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Choate was born into a family of modest means in Ipswich, Massachusetts. His father, Rufus Choate Sr., was a farmer, while his mother, Abigail (née Smith) Choate, managed the household. The younger Choate developed an interest in reading and writing at an early age, often devouring books from his family's library.
Choate attended Ipswich Academy before enrolling in Harvard University in 1815. He excelled academically, graduating with honors in 1819. Following his graduation, he studied law under the tutelage of Levi Lincoln Jr. and was admitted to the Massachusetts bar in 1823.
Major Accomplishments
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Choate's impressive career spanned over three decades. He served as a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts from 1841 to 1853 and as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1835 to 1837. In addition, he was a professor of law at Harvard University from 1828 to 1830.
Choate's oratory skills earned him widespread recognition. He delivered numerous notable speeches throughout his career, including the "The Right of Kansas to the National Constitution" in 1854 and the "Address on the Life and Character of Abraham Lincoln" in 1860.
Notable Works or Actions
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Choate was a prolific writer, publishing several works during his lifetime. His book, _Lectures on Our Faith and Practice_, explored themes related to Christianity and morality. He also wrote extensively on topics such as the rights of women, education, and American politics.
In 1846, Choate delivered a speech in defense of Martin Van Buren's presidency, which earned him both praise and criticism from his contemporaries. His commitment to public service and intellectual pursuits made him a respected figure among Americans.
Impact and Legacy
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Rufus Choate's impact on American politics, law, and education is undeniable. He played a significant role in shaping the country's legal system through his advocacy for due process and individual rights. As a professor at Harvard University, he inspired generations of students to pursue careers in law and public service.
Choate's commitment to social justice extended beyond the realm of politics. He was an early advocate for women's rights and education, recognizing the importance of equal opportunities for all citizens.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Rufus Choate is widely quoted or remembered due to his exceptional public speaking abilities, commitment to social justice, and significant contributions to American politics and law. His mastery of argumentation continues to inspire scholars and politicians alike.
Quotes by Rufus Choate
You don’t want a diction gathered from the newspapers, caught from the air, common and unsuggestive; but you want one whose every word is full-freighted with suggestion and association, with beauty and power.
Its Constitution – the glittering and sounding generalities of natural right which make up the Declaration of Independence.
Anything more low, obscene, feculent, the manifold heaving’s of history have not cast up. We shall come to the worship of onions, cats and things vermiculite.
I will look, your Honor, and endeavor to find a precedent, if you require it; though it would seem to be a pity that the Court should lose the honor of being the first to establish so just a rule.
Anything more low, obscene, feculent, the manifold heaving's of history have not cast up. We shall come to the worship of onions, cats and things vermiculite.
There was a state without king or nobles; there was a church without a bishop; there was a people governed by grave magistrates which it had selected, and by equal laws which it had framed.
All that happens in the world of Nature or Man, - every war; every peace; every hour of prosperity; every hour of adversity; every election; every death ; every life; every success and every failure, - all change, - all permanence, - the perished leaf; the unutterable glory of stars, - all things speak truth to the thoughtful spirit.
Mathematics may, be briefly defined as the science of quantities, and is one of the most important of disciplining studies which engage the practical student.
You don't want a diction gathered from the newspapers, caught from the air, common and unsuggestive; but you want one whose every word is full-freighted with suggestion and association, with beauty and power.
