This officer is elected by the people at the same time, and in the same manner, as the President, and for the same term. He must be a native citizen of the United States, and thirty-five years of age. His high-sounding title would lead one who is but little acquainted with our government to think that he stands next to the President himself in dignity and power; that on his shoulders rests a large amount of the duties and responsibilities of the administration. Such, however, is not the case. He is, in fact, nearer a cipher than any of the high officers of State. He is merely the presiding officer of the Senate, with not even the power to vote, except in case of a tie vote in that body, when he may give the casting vote. It is only in case of the death, resignation, impeachment, or disability of the President to discharge his duties, that the Vice-President becomes an officer of much power or dignity.
The following is a list of all the Vice-Presidents:
John Adams, Mass., April 30th, 1789, to March 4th, 1797—seven years, ten months and four days.
Thomas Jefferson, Va., March 4th, 1797, to March 4th, 1801—four years.
Aaron Burr, N. Y., March 4th, 1801, to March 4th, 1805—four years.
George Clinton, N. Y., March 4th, 1805, to April 30th, 1812—seven years, one month, and sixteen days.
Elbridge Gerry, Mass., March 4th, 1813, to November 23d, 1814—one year, seven months, and nineteen days.
Daniel D. Tompkins, N. Y., March 4th, 1817, to March 4th, 1825—eight years.
John C. Calhoun, S. C., March 4th, 1825 to March 4th, 1833—eight years.
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Martin Van Buren, N. Y., March 4............