Schuyler Colfax (1823 - 1885) was an American politician who served as the 17th Vice President of the United States under President Ulysses S. Grant from 1869 to 1873. Prior to his vice presidency, Colfax was a prominent member of the House of Representatives, where he served as Speaker from 1863 to 1869. He was a strong supporter of the Union during the Civil War and a key advocate for Reconstruction policies. Colfax also played a role in the development of the transcontinental railroad. However, his political career was marred by his involvement in the Crédit Mobilier scandal, a corruption case related to the construction of the railroad. After his vice presidency, Colfax served as the U.S. ambassador to Russia and remained active in public life.