John Breathitt

John Breathitt ( born September 9, 1786 Henry County, Virginia; † February 21, 1834 in Frankfort, Kentucky ) was an American politician and governor of the state of Kentucky.

Early years and political rise

The young John Breathitt was taught in the schools of his rural home, then he studied law. The money for this he earned, among other things as a teacher. In 1810 he was admitted to the bar, after which he struck a legal career in Russellville.

Breathitt began his political career in 1811 when he was elected for four years in the House of Representatives from Kentucky. At that time he was a member of the Democratic -Republican Party. Until 1824 there was no significant opposition. After the restructuring of the political landscape in the 1820s Breathitt of the newly formed Democratic Party joined under Andrew Jackson. In 1828 he was elected against Joseph R. Underwood for Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky; He was thus the representative of Governor Thomas Metcalfe.

Governor of Kentucky

In 1832 Breathitt applied himself to the office of governor. He won the election with 50.9 % of the vote against the Whig candidate Richard Aylett Buckner ( 49.1 %). He was the first Democratic governor of Kentucky. His term of office began on 4 September 1832. As Governor, he was guided by his example, Andrew Jackson and wanted its administrative organization of Tennessee transferred to Kentucky, but it was not easy. It was here that Jackson's opponents Henry Clay a larger backing. The House of Representatives introduced a number of laws that were contrary to Jackson's federal policy. For this reason, the governor vetoed, thus blocking all initiatives in this direction. During his tenure, the Louisville Bank of Kentucky was founded.

John Breathitt witnessed the end of his tenure, no more, he died on February 21, 1834 from tuberculosis. He was married twice and had three children. The Breathitt County was named after him.