John Tyler Biography: Obituary, Wife, Age, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height, Political Party, Children

John Tyler served as the tenth President of the United States from 1841 to 1845, marking a significant moment in American history as the first Vice President to ascend to the presidency following the death of his predecessor, William Henry Harrison.

His unexpected rise to power set a crucial precedent for presidential succession, as the Constitution at the time was unclear on whether the Vice President would assume full presidential powers or merely serve as an acting president.

Profile

• Full Name: John Tyler
• Stage Name: John Tyler
• Born: 29, March 1790
• Date of death: January 18, 1862 (Aged: 71 years)
• Birthplace: Greenway Plantation in Charles City, Virginia, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Politician and 10th U.S. President
• Height: unknown
• Parent: John Tyler Sr. and Mary Armistead Tyler
• Siblings: Anne Tyler, Elizabeth Tyler, Martha Tyler, Maria Tyler, Wat Tyler, William Tyler, and Christian Tyler
• Spouse: Letitia Christian Tyler (m. 1813-1842) and Julia Gardiner Tyler (m. 1844-1862)
• Children: 15
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $51 million

Early Life And Education

John Tyler was born on March 29, 1790, at Greenway Plantation in Charles City, Virginia, United States. He was the son of John Tyler Sr., a distinguished judge and politician, and Mary Armistead Tyler. Raised in a large family, he had seven siblings: Anne, Elizabeth, Martha, Maria, Wat, William, and Christian Tyler.

At the age of 12, Tyler began his education at the preparatory branch of the College of William and Mary. He later advanced to the collegiate branch, graduating in 1807 at the age of 17.

Following his academic achievements, Tyler studied law under the guidance of his father, former U.S. Attorney General Edmund Randolph. In 1809, he was admitted to the Virginia bar, marking the start of his legal career. Of English descent, Tyler’s specific religious affiliation remains undisclosed in historical records.

Career

John Tyler’s political career began early. At just 21 years old, he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing Charles City County.

He served five consecutive one-year terms, establishing himself as a strong advocate for states’ rights and a staunch opponent of a centralized national bank. During the War of 1812, Tyler demonstrated his patriotism and anti-British stance by organizing a militia company to help defend Richmond.

His growing political influence led him to resign from the legislature and accept a position on the Governor’s Council of State, where he continued to shape policy. After briefly stepping away from politics to practice law, Tyler returned to the Virginia House of Delegates in 1823.

During this tenure, he played a crucial role in proposing financial and administrative reforms to prevent the closure of the College of William and Mary. His leadership and eloquence earned him further recognition, leading to his election as governor of Virginia in 1825.

Although the position held limited authority, Tyler used it to establish himself as a compelling orator. Most notably, he delivered the funeral address for former President Thomas Jefferson, which further elevated his national profile.

Tyler’s political ascent continued with his election to the U.S. Senate, where he served until 1836. Remaining committed to states’ rights and a strict interpretation of the Constitution, he grew increasingly opposed to President Andrew Jackson’s policies.

This opposition prompted him to align with the newly formed Whig Party, which selected him as William Henry Harrison’s running mate in the 1840 presidential election. Following Harrison’s sudden death in April 1841, Tyler made history as the first Vice President to assume the presidency, becoming the tenth President of the United States.

Social Media

John Tyler does not have a social media handle.

Personal Life

John Tyler had two wives and fathered a total of 15 children, the highest number of any U.S. president. He married Letitia Christian Tyler in 1813, and she was the mother of eight of his children.

Letitia passed away in the White House in September 1842, making Tyler the first sitting president to become a widower while in office. In 1844, Tyler married Julia Gardiner in New York City, becoming the first president to marry during his presidency.

Julia was 30 years younger than Tyler, and had seven children together. As First Lady, Julia revitalized the role by redecorating the White House and hosting elegant receptions, impacting the nation’s capital.

Net Worth

When adjusted for today’s dollars, John Tyler’s estimated net Worth was around $51 million. He amassed his wealth through a combination of inheritance and marriage. Tyler inherited a 1,000-acre tobacco plantation from his father, which contributed significantly to his fortune.