Alexander, James, 1690-1756.

Lawyer, politician, statesman. Fled to America in consequence of involvement with the Rebellion of 1715; studied and practiced law. Made member of the New York Council, 1721, and in 1723, of the New jersey Council; attorney-general of New Jersey, 1723-27. An acitive opponent of Gov. Cosby's arbitrary rule, he was dismissed from Council of New York, 1732, and in 1735 removed from Council of New Jersey. His greatest prominence was attained in 1735 when he, with William Smith, volunteered to serve as counsel to the printer and publisher John Peter Zenger. In course of Zenger's trial, both were declared in contempt and stricken from the roll of attorneys. Reinstated as a member of the bar, Alexander was recalled to both Councils on Cosby's death, and from 1736-56 was active in both capacities. He died at Albany while opposing legislation he considered oppressive to the people of the colony.

From the description of Probate record, 23 January 1732. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 145408235