Dictionary.net

A famous American statesman, diplomatist, and soldier; born at Exeter, N. H., Oct. 9, 1872; died at Detroit, Mich., June 17, 1866. He served in the War of 1812; was governor of Michigan Territory (1813-31); Secretary of War (1831-36); minister to France (1836-42); United States Senator (1845-48); Presidential candidate (1848); United States Senator (1849-57); Secretary of State (1857-60). He wrote: "History, Traditions, and Languages of the Indians" (1823); "France, its King, Court, and Government"; etc.