Early Life and Career:
- Born on July 10, 1792, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Son of Alexander J. Dallas, a prominent lawyer and statesman who served as U.S. Treasury Secretary under President James Madison.
- Graduated from the College of New Jersey (now known as Princeton University) in 1810.
Political Career:
- Began his political career as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1814 to 1815.
- Served as District Attorney for the City and County of Philadelphia from 1829 to 1831.
- Elected as Mayor of Philadelphia in 1835 and served until 1838.
- Served as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania from 1839 to 1845, becoming a prominent figure in the Democratic Party.
Vice Presidency:
- In 1844, Dallas was nominated as the Democratic candidate for Vice President, running alongside James K. Polk for President.
- The Polk-Dallas ticket won the election, and Dallas served as Vice President from 1845 to 1849.
- During his time as Vice President, Dallas presided over the Senate and played a supportive role to President Polk.
Later Career:
- After leaving the vice presidency, Dallas was appointed as Minister to Great Britain by President Polk in 1856 and served until 1861.
- He also served as a delegate to the Pennsylvania Constitutional Convention in 1837 and the Democratic National Conventions in 1832, 1836, 1840, and 1848.
Personal Life:
- Married to Sophia Nicklin Bache in 1826.
- Had two sons, George M. Dallas Jr. and Alexander J. Dallas.
- Died on December 31, 1864, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
George M. Dallas is remembered for his contributions to American politics and his service as Vice President during a period of significant expansion and territorial acquisition for the United States.