Robert M. La Follette Quotes

Politician
USA
1855

Robert M. La Follette was an American politician and reformer who played a significant role in the Progressive Era. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Governor of Wisconsin, and U.S. Senator. La Follette was known for his progressive policies and advocacy for social and political reforms, including women’s suffrage, labor rights, and direct democracy. He also championed the regulation of big business and fought against corruption in government. La Follette’s notable works include the Wisconsin Idea, which aimed to improve the lives of citizens through government intervention, and his leadership in the creation of the Progressive Party. He is remembered as a key figure in the history of American progressivism and a pioneer in the fight for social justice and equality.Read Less

3 Best Robert M. La Follette Quotes

Let no man think we can deny civil liberty to others and retain it for ourselves. Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Robert M. La Follette, Sr., Liberty, 0

- Robert M. La Follette

Politician

· USA

Liberty

Wealth has never yet sacrificed itself on the altar of patriotism. Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Robert M. La Follette, Sr., Altars, Wealth, 0

- Robert M. La Follette

Politician

· USA

Publicity, discussion, and agitation are necessary to accomplish any work of lasting benefit. Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Robert M. La Follette, Sr., Agitation, Benefit, Publicity, 0

- Robert M. La Follette

Politician

· USA

Robert M. La Follette Career Highlights

La Follette was born on June 14, 1855, in Primrose, Wisconsin. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1879 and went on to study law.
He began his political career as a district attorney in 1880 and was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1885.
In 1900, he was elected as the Governor of Wisconsin and served three terms until 1906. During his tenure, he implemented progressive policies such as regulating railroad rates, creating a state income tax, and establishing a state civil service system.
In 1906, he was elected to the United States Senate, where he served until 1925. He was a vocal advocate for progressive reforms and often clashed with the conservative establishment.
In 1924, he ran for President as the Progressive Party candidate but lost to Calvin Coolidge. However, he received over 5 million votes, making him the most successful third-party candidate in US history.
La Follette continued to serve in the Senate until his death in 1925. He was known for his fiery speeches and his unwavering commitment to progressive ideals.

Key Contributions by Robert M. La Follette

La Follette was a leading figure in the Progressive Movement, which aimed to address social and economic issues through government intervention.
He was a strong advocate for government reform and fought against corruption and the influence of big businesses in politics.
He championed workers’ rights and supported labor unions, leading to the passage of laws that protected workers and improved working conditions.
La Follette was a staunch supporter of women’s suffrage and played a crucial role in the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.
He also advocated for environmental conservation and was instrumental in the creation of the National Park Service.

What Sets Him Apart:

La Follette was a fearless and uncompromising leader who was not afraid to challenge the status quo. He was known for his fiery speeches and his unwavering commitment to his principles.
He was a pioneer in progressive politics and paved the way for future leaders such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt.
La Follette’s progressive policies and reforms had a lasting impact on Wisconsin and the nation as a whole. His ideas and principles continue to influence political discourse and policies to this day.

Takeaways

Robert M. La Follette was a key figure in the Progressive Movement and a champion of government reform and social justice.
His contributions to workers’ rights, women’s suffrage, and environmental conservation have had a lasting impact on American society.
La Follette’s unwavering commitment to his principles and his fearless leadership serve as an inspiration for future generations of politicians and activists.

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