Buchanan, James (Administration)

James Buchanan, the 15th president of the United States and the only president who never married, was born into a wealthy Pennsylvania family in 1791. He received a military education in his early years prior to graduating from Dickinson College in 1809. Upon college graduation, Buchanan studied law and opened a legal practice. He also volunteered to join a military brigade and was active in defending the Baltimore harbor during the War of 1812. Following his military service, Buchanan was elected to serve in the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives. He served three two-year terms before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1831. After serving in Congress for 11 years, he accepted a diplomatic appointment and was minister to Russia until 1834. ...