12 Facts About Alexander Smyth

Alexander Smyth was an American lawyer, soldier, and politician from Virginia.

Alexander Smyth was born on Rathlin Island in County Antrim.

Alexander Smyth immigrated to the United States with his father, Rev Alfred Smythe at the age of 10, and settled in Botetourt County, Virginia, in 1775 where he completed preparatory studies.

Alexander Smyth studied law, and was admitted to the bar and commenced practice in Abingdon, Virginia.

Alexander Smyth moved to Wythe County, Virginia, and was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates in 1792,1796,1801,1802, and from 1804 to 1808.

Alexander Smyth served in the Virginia Senate in 1808 and 1809.

Alexander Smyth served in the United States Army from 1808 to 1813.

Shortly after the outbreak of the War of 1812, Alexander Smyth was promoted to brigadier general on July 6,1812.

Alexander Smyth challenged Porter to a duel, but both men went unscathed.

Alexander Smyth was elected to the Fifteenth United States Congress and reelected to the Sixteenth, Seventeenth, and Eighteenth Congresses, serving from March 4,1817, to March 3,1825.

Alexander Smyth was elected again to the Twentieth and Twenty-first Congresses, serving again from March 4,1827, until his death.

Alexander Smyth died in Washington, DC, and was interred in the United States Congressional Cemetery.