Charles Sheldon spent his formative years in Vermont, working on a farm and later engaging in the abolitionist movement. He served in the military, rising to the rank of captain during the Civil War. Following his military career, Sheldon entered the mercantile business and became active in local politics, representing various districts in the Territorial Legislature. He served two terms as Governor of South Dakota, where he focused on economic policies supporting farming and mercantile businesses.

Charles Sheldon's political identity is marked by a unique blend of regional economic advocacy and personal health considerations shaping policy. His legislative efforts consistently favored mercantile and farming interests, yet his move to a northern climate for his son's health underscores a deeply personal dimension to his public decisions. Sheldon's military service and commitment to the abolitionist cause further reveal a complex ideological foundation that defies simple categorization.