Richard Johnson Elected Vice President by Senate
February 8th, 1837
February 8th, 1837
How Long Ago?
188 years, 1 month, 7 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Politics & Government
People
- John Tyler
- Martin Van Buren
- Richard Mentor Johnson
Links & References
Tags
Richard Johnson Elected Vice President by Senate
Richard Mentor Johnson was elected Vice President of the United States through a unique process by the Senate, making him the first and only individual elected to the position in this manner. Following a contentious election where neither candidate achieved a majority in the Electoral College, the decision fell to the Senate as mandated by the Constitution. Johnson, a Democratic-Republican from Kentucky, faced off against John Tyler from Virginia. His election reflected the political dynamics and divisions of the time, marking a significant moment in U.S. political history.
First VP chosen by Senate, not electorate.
Richard Johnson faced John Tyler in the selection.
Election resulted from no majority in Electoral College.
Event highlighted political divisions of the era.
What Happened?
Richard Mentor Johnson became the first and only Vice President of the United States to be elected by the Senate after the 1836 presidential election. During this election, Martin Van Buren was successfully elected as President, yet the Vice Presidency was contested between Johnson and Tyler. The election resulted in neither candidate securing the necessary majority in the Electoral College. This led to a remarkable situation where the 12th Amendment of the Constitution required the Senate to choose between the two candidates, highlighting the crucial role of the legislative body in determining presidential succession. The election was contentious, as Johnson was known for his controversial lifestyle and had gained notoriety for his relationship with a mixed-race woman, which influenced public perception and political dynamics. This unique electoral event occurred amidst a backdrop of fierce political rivalry and shifting alliances in the early 19th century United States.
Why Does it Matter?
This event is significant as it showcases the intricacies and occasional unpredictability of the American electoral process. It underscores the influence of political maneuvering and the role of the Senate within the broader context of the government. Johnson's unique path to the vice presidency is a reminder of how the constitutional framework can lead to unconventional election outcomes, raising considerations about representation and the electoral system's evolution over time.
Discover More Historic Events from February 8th
Bus Crashes Into Laval Daycare, Two Children Dies
A tragic incident occurred when a bus crashed into a daycare center in Laval, Quebec, killing two children and injuring six others. The driver was taken into custody and faced charges for homicide and dangerous driving. The crash devastated the community, leaving parents and residents in shock over the senseless loss. Witnesses reported a chaotic scene as emergency services responded quickly to the area, attempting to provide aid to the victims and reassurance to the devastated families nearby.
Continue ReadingMass Shooting at Nakhon Ratchasima Shopping Center
A soldier opened fire in a military camp and later in a shopping center in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, resulting in 29 deaths and 58 injuries. The perpetrator, Sergeant Major Jakrapanth Thomma, stole weapons from the camp before his rampage. The incident began in the early hours and lasted for more than 12 hours, causing panic among civilians and leading to a large police presence. The standoff ended when police shot and killed Thomma the following day.
Continue ReadingHotel fire in Medina kills Egyptian pilgrims
A devastating fire erupted in a hotel in Medina, Saudi Arabia, killing 15 Egyptian pilgrims and injuring around 130 others. The blaze broke out in the early hours, leading to chaotic scenes as emergency services responded. Many victims were trapped in their rooms, and smoke inhalation was a significant cause of injuries. Investigators quickly launched inquiries to determine the cause of the fire, focusing on safety regulations and fire prevention measures within the hotel.
Continue ReadingBlizzard Strikes Northeast US and Canada
A significant blizzard impacted the northeastern United States and parts of Canada, resulting in at least 18 fatalities and widespread power outages affecting hundreds of thousands. The storm brought heavy snowfall and strong winds, severely disrupting travel and daily life. Emergency services were stretched thin as they worked to restore power and assist those trapped by the storm. Many areas experienced snowfall totals exceeding two feet, creating hazardous conditions.
Continue ReadingAvalanches in the Hindu Kush Claim Lives
In a devastating natural disaster, storms in the Hindu Kush mountains of Afghanistan triggered a series of avalanches, resulting in the burial of over 2 miles of roadway. The calamity led to the deaths of at least 172 people, while more than 2,000 individuals found themselves trapped in the aftermath. The avalanche struck an area prone to such events, underscoring the danger posed by winter storms in mountainous regions. Rescue efforts faced significant challenges due to the difficult terrain and ongoing weather conditions.
Continue ReadingMid-air Collision of Iranian Aircraft
A collision occurred between an Iran Air Tours Tupolev Tu-154 and an Iranian Air Force Sukhoi Su-24 near Qods, Iran, resulting in the deaths of all 133 individuals on both aircraft. The incident prompted investigations into air traffic control and operational safety for civilian and military air traffic in the region, highlighting significant issues with airspace management.
Continue Reading