Definition
Stephen Coburn (1817 – 1865) was an American lawyer and politician who served briefly as a United States Representative from the state of Maine.
Overview
Born in the early nineteenth century, Coburn pursued a legal education and was admitted to the bar in Maine, where he practiced law primarily in Portland. He became active in state politics, holding positions in the Maine House of Representatives before being elected to the United States House of Representatives. Coburn’s term in Congress was short, lasting only a few months in 1858, after which he returned to his legal practice. He died in 1865.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Stephen” derives from the Greek Stephanos, meaning “crown” or “laurel.” The surname “Coburn” is of Anglo‑Scottish origin, historically a variant of “Cobburn” or “Coburn,” which may be locational, indicating ancestry from a place named “Coburn” or “Coberne” in England or Scotland. No specific etymological information linked to the individual is recorded.
Characteristics
- Profession: Attorney; practiced civil and commercial law in Maine.
- Political affiliation: Associated with the Democratic Party during his congressional service.
- Legislative service: Member of the Maine House of Representatives; briefly served as a U.S. Representative for Maine’s 2nd congressional district in 1858.
- Notable activities: While in Congress, Coburn participated in debates concerning mid‑nineteenth‑century issues such as territorial expansion and the intensifying national discourse on slavery, though his short tenure limited his legislative impact.
- Personal life: Married with children; involved in local civic affairs in Portland, Maine.
Related Topics
- United States House of Representatives
- Political history of Maine
- Mid‑19th‑century American politics
- Democratic Party (United States)
Accurate information is not confirmed for certain biographical details, such as exact dates of birth, specific legislative achievements, and personal family information, due to limited contemporary documentary evidence.