Eugene Hale

Eugene_Hale

Eugene Hale (June 9, 1836 – October 27, 1918) was an American politician and lawyer from Maine. He served as a United States Senator from Maine from 1881 to 1911. Hale was a member of the Republican Party and was known for his work on naval affairs and his opposition to the annexation of Hawaii.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Eugene Hale was born in Turner, Maine, to parents James Sullivan Hale and Betsey Staples Hale. He attended the local schools and later studied at Hebron Academy. Hale studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1857, beginning his practice in Ellsworth, Maine.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Hale's political career began in the Maine House of Representatives, where he served from 1867 to 1868 and again from 1879 to 1880. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives and served from 1869 to 1879. In 1881, he was elected to the United States Senate, where he served until 1911.

Senate Career[edit | edit source]

During his tenure in the Senate, Hale was a prominent member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Senate Committee on Naval Affairs. He played a significant role in the modernization of the United States Navy and was a strong advocate for naval expansion. Hale was also known for his opposition to the annexation of Hawaii, arguing that it was not in the best interest of the United States.

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Eugene Hale married Mary Douglas Chandler in 1871, and they had three sons: Frederick Hale, who also became a U.S. Senator from Maine; Chandler Hale, a diplomat; and Eugene Hale Jr., who pursued a career in law.

Death and Legacy[edit | edit source]

Eugene Hale died on October 27, 1918, in Washington, D.C., and was buried in Woodbine Cemetery in Ellsworth, Maine. His contributions to naval policy and his long service in the Senate left a lasting impact on American politics.