William Lowndes (congressman)

William Lowndes (February 11, 1782 – October 27, 1822) was an American lawyer and politician from South Carolina. He served as a U.S. Representative for South Carolina from 1811 until his resignation in 1822, shortly before his death. He was a prominent member of the Democratic-Republican Party.

Lowndes was born in Colleton County, South Carolina, the son of Rawlins Lowndes, a former Governor of South Carolina. He graduated from the College of Charleston in 1800 and studied law.

Lowndes quickly gained prominence in South Carolina politics. He served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1804 to 1810. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1810 and served until 1822.

In Congress, Lowndes became a leading voice for states' rights and was known for his intelligence, integrity, and moderation. He chaired the powerful Ways and Means Committee. He played a significant role in shaping national policy during the War of 1812 and the subsequent Era of Good Feelings. He was considered a potential candidate for president in 1824, but his declining health prevented him from actively pursuing the nomination.

Lowndes's health deteriorated significantly in his later years. Suffering from a recurring illness, he resigned from Congress in 1822. He died at sea on his way to England in hopes of improving his health. He is buried in Newport, Rhode Island.

He is remembered as a respected and influential statesman who contributed significantly to the early development of the United States. He married Elizabeth Pinckney and had several children.