John Breathitt was an American politician who served as the 18th governor of Kentucky from 1859 until his death in 1862. He was born on September 21, 1819, in Bourbon County, Kentucky. Breathitt was a member of the Democratic Party and focused on issues such as education and infrastructure during his time in office. Breathitt's governorship was marked by the challenges of the American Civil War, which began shortly after he took office. He died in a tragic accident on February 9, 1862, when he fell from a horse. His contributions to Kentucky's development are remembered, and several places are named in his honor.