Ran for president in 1860 against Abraham Lincoln United States Congressman & Senator from Tennessee Speaker of the House United States Secretary of War (1797-1869) Born near Nashville, Tenn., he graduated from the University of Nashville in 1814, studied law, was admitted to the bar in 1816, and commenced practice in Franklin, Tenn. Served as a U.S. Congressman from Tennessee, 1827-41. Was Speaker of the House, and Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs. Served as U.S. Secretary of War in 1841 under President William Henry Harrison, and U.S. Senator, 1847-59. He was defeated for President of the United States in 1860 by Abraham Lincoln. Signature: 6 x 1, in ink, Jno. Bell. Excellent large autograph.