John McLean

John McLean was an influential American jurist and politician who made significant contributions to the United States government in the 19th century. Born in New Jersey, he moved to various frontier towns before establishing himself in Ridgeville, Ohio, where he founded The Western Star, a weekly newspaper, and began his law practice. McLean's political career began with his election to the United States House of Representatives in 1813, and he later served as a justice on the Ohio Supreme Court. His appointment as U.S. Postmaster General in 1823 under President James Monroe marked a pivotal moment in his career, during which he oversaw a substantial expansion of the United States Postal Service. In 1829, McLean was appointed as an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court, where he became known for his strong opposition to slavery. His dissenting opinions in landmark cases such as Prigg v. Pennsylvania and Dred Scott v. Sandford highlighted his commitment to civil rights and justice. A prominent figure within the Whig and later Republican parties, McLean was frequently mentioned as a potential presidential candidate, receiving support at multiple national conventions. His legacy as a jurist and advocate for abolition remains significant in American legal history.