1857 Republic Man of the Year
John A. Brown
John Brown, a white American abolitionist who has advocated insurrection and murder as a means to abolish slavery. Brown first gained attention when he led small groups of volunteers during the Bleeding Kansas crisis. Unlike most other Northerners, who advocate peaceful resistance to the pro-slavery faction, Brown has demanded violent action in response to Southern aggression. Dissatisfied with the pacifism encouraged by the organized abolitionist movement, he has been quoted as saying, "These men are all talk. What we need is action - action!"
His belief in confrontation led him to kill five pro-slavery southerners in what has become known as the Pottawatomie Massacre in May 1856, which was in response to the raid of the "free soil" city of Lawrence by pro-slavery advocates.
Runner-Up: Brigham Young
The leader of the Latter Day Saint movement and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1847 until present. Young was also the first governor of the Utah Territory. He is a central figure in the current crisis between the U.S. Government and the Mormons.
1857 Sport Man of the Year
Tom Sayer
Sayers claimed the English Boxing Championship after defeating Willam "The Tipton Slasher" Perry. Many of his opponents have been much larger men. Commentators laud him as a skillful pugilist who strikes stiff blows and is tough and game.
Runner Up: Marvin Gelston
Gelston is seen here behind the home base in a match between Eagle and Gotham earlier this year.
A catcher for the Eagle Club of New York. A veteran player who has consistently been among the leaders in aces tallied. In addition, many players acknowledge him as one of the finest defensive backstops in the game today.