Lorenzo Crounse completed his early education in New York and pursued law, gaining admission to the bar in 1857. He established a law practice in New York before serving in the Civil War, where he was wounded and subsequently returned to legal practice. Crounse moved to the Nebraska Territory, where he engaged in state politics, including roles in the territorial legislature and the state constitutional convention. He served as a Justice of the Nebraska state supreme court and later as a member of Congress. Crounse also held federal positions, including internal revenue collector and Assistant Secretary of the United States Treasury, before becoming governor of Nebraska.

Lorenzo Crounse's political career reveals a blend of military service, legal expertise, and a commitment to public service, particularly in Nebraska. His transition from a Civil War veteran to a state supreme court justice and later a U.S. Congressman shows an ideologically agile approach, adept at navigating different political landscapes. His unexpected move from federal to state roles, including a stint as governor, suggests a highly localized focus on regional issues. Crounse's ability to hold significant positions across various branches of government hints at a strategic, calculated political style, balancing local and national interests.