Carl Hayden

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Hayden's Ferry

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Carl Hayden 1912

Carl Hayden c1916

Carl Trumbull Hayden (October 2, 1877 – January 25, 1972) was an American politician and statesman who served as a United States Senator from Arizona. Hayden was a key figure in the development of the American Southwest, particularly in the advancement of water management and reclamation projects. His career in Congress spanned over fifty years, making him one of the longest-serving members in the history of the United States Congress.

Early Life and Education

Carl Hayden was born in Tempe, Arizona, then part of the Arizona Territory, to Charles Trumbull Hayden and Sallie Calvert Davis. His father was a prominent businessman and pioneer who played a significant role in the development of the Arizona Territory. Hayden attended Stanford University, where he graduated in 1896. After completing his education, he returned to Arizona to work in his family's various business interests.

Political Career

Hayden's political career began in earnest in 1904 when he was elected as the treasurer of Maricopa County, a position he held for two terms. In 1912, following Arizona's admission as a state, Hayden was elected as its first representative to the United States Congress. He served in the House of Representatives until 1927, when he was elected to the United States Senate, a position he would hold until his retirement in 1969.

Throughout his tenure, Hayden was deeply involved in issues related to water management and reclamation. He was instrumental in the passage of the Boulder Canyon Project Act, which authorized the construction of the Hoover Dam and the allocation of water rights in the Colorado River Basin. His efforts were crucial in bringing water and hydroelectric power to the arid regions of the Southwest, transforming the landscape and economy of the area.

Hayden also played a significant role in the creation of the G.I. Bill, which provided a range of benefits to returning World War II veterans, including low-cost mortgages, loans to start a business, and tuition and living expenses to attend college or vocational school.

Legacy

Carl Hayden's legacy is marked by his contributions to the development of the American Southwest. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center at Glen Canyon Dam and the Carl T. Hayden Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Phoenix are named in his honor, reflecting his impact on both regional development and veterans' affairs.

Hayden is remembered as a pragmatic and effective legislator who worked across party lines to achieve his goals. His long tenure in Congress is a testament to his dedication to public service and his ability to adapt to changing political landscapes.

See Also

• United States Congress
• Water rights
• Arizona politics