Al Smith

Al Smith

Alfred Emanuel Smith (December 30, 1873 – October 4, 1944) was an American politician who served as the 42nd Governor of New York and was the Democratic Party's candidate for President of the United States in 1928. Smith was a notable figure in the history of American politics, known for his progressive policies and his role as a leading urban leader of the Progressive Era.

Early Life and Career

Al Smith was born in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City, to Catherine and Alfred Smith. His father was of Irish and Italian descent, and his mother was of German, Irish, and English ancestry. Smith grew up in a working-class neighborhood and left school at the age of 14 to help support his family after his father's death.

Smith began his political career in 1895 when he was elected to the New York State Assembly. He served in the Assembly until 1915, becoming its speaker in 1913. During his time in the Assembly, Smith became known for his advocacy of labor rights and social welfare programs.

Governor of New York

Smith was elected Governor of New York in 1918, serving four terms in total (1919–1920, 1923–1928). As governor, he implemented a wide range of progressive reforms, including improvements in housing, labor laws, and social welfare. He was a strong advocate for the construction of the Empire State Building and other public works projects.

Smith's tenure as governor was marked by his efforts to modernize the state's government and infrastructure. He worked to improve the conditions of the state's prisons, hospitals, and schools, and he was a proponent of expanding the state's highway system.

1928 Presidential Campaign

In 1928, Al Smith became the first Roman Catholic to be nominated for president by a major party. His candidacy was significant in American history, as it highlighted issues of religion, ethnicity, and urban-rural divides. Smith's campaign faced significant opposition due to anti-Catholic sentiment and his association with the urban political machine of Tammany Hall.

Smith ran on a platform that included the repeal of Prohibition, which was a controversial issue at the time. Despite his efforts, Smith lost the election to Herbert Hoover, who won in a landslide.

Later Life and Legacy

After his defeat in the presidential election, Smith continued to be active in public life. He became the president of the Empire State, Inc., the company that built and operated the Empire State Building. Smith also remained involved in Democratic Party politics, although he became increasingly critical of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal.

Smith's legacy is that of a pioneering reformer who helped shape the modern Democratic Party. He is remembered for his commitment to social justice and his efforts to improve the lives of working-class Americans.

References

• Encyclopaedia Britannica: Al Smith
• History.com: Al Smith

Further Reading

• "The Happy Warrior: Alfred E. Smith" by Christopher M. Finan
• "Al Smith: Hero of the Cities" by Matthew and Hannah Josephson

External Links

• University at Albany: Al Smith