The purpose of the study was to compile an in-depth biography of Jonathan Jennings, the first state governor of Indiana. It was the first such research to originate on the central political figure in the development of Indiana statehood.All published or unpublished manuscript collections pertaining to Indiana politicians contemporary with Jennings were researched. Every Indiana state or territorial newspaper collection available during Jennings's years in government service were searched for references pertaining to his career. All federal, territorial or state public documents that could possibly refer to his career were studied. Fifty-three secondary books, fourteen journal articles, and seven published sets of reminiscences were utilized to complete this project.Findings1. Jonathan Jennings was a superb political organizer possessing a keen sense of timing and an ability to emotionalize political issues, to create personality clashes.2. Though generally Jeffersonian in outlook, Jennings was not an ideologue. He was a pragmatic politician, able to adapt his philosophy to the contingencies of the issues he supported.3. As a member of Congress, Jennings consistently voted from a provincial point of view.National issues, such as those which led the United States to the War of 1812, were viewed by Jennings as irritants which prevented Congress from legislating for the local needs of his constituents.4. Jennings's two terms as governor were his most valuable years of public service. His persistent support of state-financed public education, as well as aid to the elderly and infirm, indicated a sense of government responsibility uncommon for political leaders his day.5. Jennings was a frustrated, driven man who turned to alcohol rather than attempt to resolve deeply embedded feelings of inadequacy, a character flaw instrumental in his demise.Conclusions1. Rather than a prolific legislator in Congress, Jonathan Jennings was better characterized as an agitator, symbolizing the anti-Harrison, anti-slavery forces.2. Jennings's concern for local development enhanced his effectiveness as state governor. 3. Jennings's weakness for alcohol combined with the changing political structure produced by the emerging Jacksonian forces, brought to conclusion a political career which might otherwise have contributed for several years beyond its time. / Department of History

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) / Although the main emphasis of this study is Lane and his part in the Republican Party, another important part to this thesis is the examination of Indiana and national politics in the 1850s. This thesis studies the development of the Hoosier Republican Party and the obstacles the young organization experienced as it transformed into a major political party. Party leaders generally focused on states like New York and Pennsylvania in national elections but Indiana became increasingly significant leading up to the 1860 election. Though Hoosier names like George Julian and Schuyler Colfax might be more recognizable nationally for their role in the Republican Party, this thesis argues that Lane played a guiding role in the development of the new third party in Indiana. Through the study of primary sources, it is clear that Hoosiers turned to Lane to lead the organization of the Republican Party and to lead it to its success in elections. Historians have long acknowledged Lane’s involvement in the 1860 Republican National Convention but fail to fully realize his significance in Indiana throughout the 1850s. This thesis argues that Lane was a vital leader in Hoosier politics and helped transform the Republican Party in Indiana from a grassroots movement into a powerful political party by 1860.