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(1786-1857), an American Cabinet officer, graduated at Brown, became a lawyer, took part in the War of 1812, and became a Democratic editor in Troy. He was one of the leaders in the "Albany Regency," and a master in political management. In 1823-1829 he was Comptroller of New York, Associate Justice of the State Supreme Court 1829-1831, and in 1831-1833 member of the U.S. Senate, where he made his famous "to the victors belong the spoils" speech. He was Governor of New York 1833-1839, Secretary of War 1845-1849, and Secretary of State 1853-1857. In the latter office he has won general regard for his able treatment of difficult international questions.