James Monroe (congressman) James Monroe (congressman) James Monroe (July 18, 1821 – July 6, 1898) was a U.S. Representative from Ohio. Born in Plainfield, Connecticut, Monroe attended the common schools and Plainfield Academy. He was graduated from Oberlin College in 1846. He pursued a postgraduate course in theology and was a professor at Oberlin College from 1849–1862. He served as a member of the State house of representatives of Ohio in 1856–1859. He served in the State senate from 1860–1862, during which time he was chosen to serve as president pro tempore from 1861 and 1862. In October 1862, he resigned his seat
Presidency of James Monroe Monroe hoped that the appointment of Adams would encourage the defection of more Federalists. Monroe offered the position of Secretary of War to Henry Clay of Kentucky, but Clay was only willing to serve in the cabinet as Secretary of State. Monroe's decision to appoint Adams to the latter position alienated Clay, and Clay would oppose many of the administration's policies. After General Andrew Jackson and Governor Isaac Shelby declined appointment as Secretary of War, Monroe turned to South Carolina Congressman John C. Calhoun, leaving the cabinet without a prominent Westerner. In late 1817, Rush was appointed as the ambassador