Lewis Charles Levin
Lewis Charles Levin (November 10, 1808 – March 14, 1860) was an American politician, newspaper editor and anti-Catholic social activist. He was one of the founders of the American Party in 1842 and served as a member of the U. S. House of Representatives representing Pennsylvania's 1st congressional district from 1845 to 1851. Levin was the first Jewish U.S. Congressman, although David Levy Yulee served as a territorial representative from Florida prior to Levin's election to the House.
Lewis Charles Levin | |
|---|---|
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 1st district | |
| In office March 4, 1845 – March 3, 1851 | |
| Preceded by | Edward J. Morris |
| Succeeded by | Thomas B. Florence |
| Personal details | |
| Born | November 10, 1808 Charleston, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Died | March 14, 1860 (aged 51) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Resting place | Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | American Party |
| Spouse(s) | Ann Hays Julia Gist |
| Children | Louisa |
| Profession | Politician |
Levin supported the nativist Americanism ideology espoused by some northern Protestants at the expense of Catholics. He was a dynamic orator on temperance and political issues; however, many of his speeches spread xenophobia. Levin played a leading role in inciting the Philadelphia nativist riots which led to the killing of over 20 Irish Americans; the burning of many of their homes; and the destruction of three Catholic churches associated with their community. Towards the end of his life, he was deemed insane and committed to an asylum and died in Philadelphia in 1860.