Alexander, De Alva Stanwood

About the author

De Alva Stanwood Alexander (1845–1925) was an American politician, historian, and journalist who extensively chronicled New York State’s political evolution. After serving in the Union Army during the Civil War, Alexander pursued law and journalism, eventually entering the political sphere. His writings aimed to combine meticulous documentary evidence with a readable style, especially when outlining the state’s shifting party dynamics and the interplay of political figures. By mapping out the strategical maneuvers and ideological debates that defined legislative processes, he helped demystify politics for citizens. His multi-volume histories remain instructive for students of U.S. governance, highlighting how local arenas can shape—and be shaped by—broader national currents.