Alexander J. Dallas (statesman)

Alexander J. Dallas (June 21, 1759 – January 16, 1817) was an American statesman who served as the 6th United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1814 to 1816 under President James Madison.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, to Scottish parents, Dallas was educated in Edinburgh, Scotland. He emigrated to the United States in 1783, settling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He quickly became involved in Pennsylvania politics, serving as the state's Secretary of the Commonwealth from 1791 to 1801. He was a strong advocate for the U.S. Constitution and a supporter of the Federalist Party, though he later aligned himself with the Democratic-Republican Party.

Prior to his service as Secretary of the Treasury, Dallas served as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania from 1801 to 1814. His legal acumen and financial expertise were highly regarded.

As Secretary of the Treasury during the War of 1812, Dallas faced significant challenges in financing the war effort. He is credited with helping to stabilize the nation's finances and establishing a national bank, the Second Bank of the United States, in 1816. This institution was designed to regulate state banks, provide a stable national currency, and help manage the nation's debt. Dallas's efforts were crucial in restoring confidence in the U.S. economy after the war.

After leaving the Treasury Department, Dallas returned to his law practice in Philadelphia. He died suddenly in 1817. Dallas, Texas, is named in his honor. His son, George Mifflin Dallas, served as the 11th Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.