Charles Curtis

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Charles Curtis (January 25, 1860 – February 8, 1936) was an American attorney and politician, who served as the 31st Vice President of the United States from 1929 to 1933 under President Herbert Hoover. He was a member of the Republican Party and is notable for being the first person with significant Native American ancestry and the first person of color to serve as Vice President.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Charles Curtis was born in Topeka, Kansas, to Orren Curtis, a white man, and Ellen Papin, who was of Kaw, Osage, and Potawatomi heritage. Curtis was raised in both Native American and white cultures, spending part of his childhood on the Kaw reservation. He attended Topeka High School and later studied law, becoming a lawyer in 1881.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Curtis began his political career in the Kansas House of Representatives, serving from 1893 to 1897. He was then elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he served from 1893 to 1907. Curtis was subsequently elected to the United States Senate, serving from 1907 to 1913 and again from 1915 to 1929. During his time in the Senate, he held the position of Senate Majority Leader from 1924 to 1929.

Vice Presidency[edit | edit source]

In 1928, Curtis was selected as the running mate for Herbert Hoover in the presidential election. The Hoover-Curtis ticket won, and Curtis served as Vice President from 1929 to 1933. His tenure was marked by the onset of the Great Depression, and he was involved in various legislative efforts to address the economic crisis.

Later Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

After leaving office, Curtis returned to practicing law in Washington, D.C. He remained active in politics and public service until his death in 1936. Curtis is remembered for his contributions to American politics and his unique heritage, which brought diversity to the highest levels of government.