John Brough began his career as a printer's apprentice after becoming an orphan at age 11. He later pursued part-time education while working as a reporter and correspondent, eventually being elected to the Ohio House of Representatives. Brough held various positions, including State Auditor and trustee of Ohio University, and transitioned into the private sector by purchasing and managing a newspaper. His leadership extended to the railroad industry, where he played a significant role in a major railway company.

John Brough's political identity is marked by an unwavering commitment to Union and anti-slavery causes, even as he employs a highly localized approach to galvanize support. His strategic emphasis on regional contributions to the war effort reveals an unexpected alignment with industrial interests. Brough's refusal of a higher federal position to stay as governor suggests a deeply rooted belief in localized governance. His ideological stances, coupled with his calculated policy decisions, hint at a nuanced approach that balances broader national goals with regional priorities.