John Harper (November 24, 1792 – December 1, 1849) was an American politician who represented Kentucky in both the state legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives during the early 19th century. A lawyer by profession, he was a prominent figure in Kentucky's Whig Party.
Early Life and Education Born in Cumberland County, Virginia, in 1792, John Harper later relocated to Kentucky, settling in Meade County. He pursued legal studies and was admitted to the bar, subsequently commencing a career as a practicing attorney.
Political Career Harper began his political career at the state level. He was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives, serving a term from 1826 to 1827. Following this, he was elected to the Kentucky Senate, where he served from 1828 to 1832.
His political activities culminated in his election to the U.S. House of Representatives. Representing Kentucky's 8th congressional district, Harper served one term as a Whig in the Twenty-eighth Congress, from March 4, 1843, to March 3, 1845. He sought re-election in 1844 but was unsuccessful in his bid for the Twenty-ninth Congress.
Later Life and Death After his single term in the U.S. Congress, John Harper returned to Kentucky and resumed his legal practice. He died on December 1, 1849, in Brandenburg, Meade County, Kentucky, at the age of 57. He was interred in the Brandenburg Cemetery.