Who was involved in the founding of the 14th Amendment
The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution was primarily drafted by a group of Republicans known as the "Radical Republicans." The key figures involved in its drafting and passage include:
1. John Bingham: A Republican congressman from Ohio, he is often referred to as the "father of the 14th Amendment" due to his role in drafting it and advocating for its ratification.
2. Thaddeus Stevens: A Republican congressman from Pennsylvania and leader of the Radical Republicans, he played a significant role in drafting the amendment and advocating for its passage.
3. Charles Sumner: A Republican senator from Massachusetts, he was a key figure in the abolitionist movement and actively promoted equal rights for African Americans. Sumner delivered a powerful speech on equal rights during the Senate debate on the amendment.
4. Jacob M. Howard: A Republican senator from Michigan, he played a crucial role in drafting the amendment and proposing several key provisions, including the Equal Protection Clause.
5. Lyman Trumbull: A Republican senator from Illinois, he chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee and played a prominent role in drafting the amendment.
6. James Mitchell Ashley: A Republican congressman from Ohio, he was a vocal advocate for the amendment and played a significant role in its drafting.
These individuals, along with other Republican politicians and activists, worked together to devise and promote the 14th Amendment, which was ultimately ratified by the necessary states and became a part of the United States Constitution in 1868.