The Biographical Dictionary of America/Alexander, William Cooper

ALEXANDER, William Cooper, lawyer, was born in Virginia, Jan. 4, 1806, second son of Archibald and Janetta (Waddel) Alexander. He was educated in Philadelphia and at Princeton college, where he was graduated in 1824. He then studied law and was admitted to the bar on arriving at his majority in 1827. He gained distinction as an advocate and orator, and took active part in political life. As lieutenant-governor of the state of New Jersey, he presided over the state senate for several years. In 1851 he was a candidate for governor, but was defeated by a few votes. He was a member of the peace congress of 1861 and presided over many of its sessions. In 1859 he helped to organize the Equitable life assurance society and was its first president, which office he held until his death, which occurred in New York city, Aug. 23, 1874.