Dictionary.net

(1795-1866), grandson of Richard Stockton, was in the navy in the War of 1812, and was distinguished in the ensuing Algerine War. He was engaged in the establishment of Liberia and in the capture of slavers and pirates. He was the chief promoter of the Delaware and Raritan Canal. As captain he commanded a squadron on the California coast in the Mexican War, and co-operated with Fremont in the conquest of that province. He captured Los Angeles, and organized a government. Commodore Stockton left the navy in 1850 and was U. S. Senator from New Jersey in 1851-1853. He was a delegate to the Peace Congress of 1861.