Harold M. Ickes

Ickes (2543036259)

Harold M. Ickes (March 15, 1874 – February 3, 1952) was a prominent American administrator and politician. He served as the United States Secretary of the Interior for an unprecedented 13 years, from 1933 to 1946, under Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman. Ickes was a key figure in the implementation of the New Deal and played a significant role in the administration of public works projects during the Great Depression.

Early Life and Education

Harold LeClair Ickes was born in Blair County, Pennsylvania. He attended the University of Chicago, where he earned a degree in 1897. Ickes later attended the University of Chicago Law School, graduating in 1907.

Career

Early Career

Before his tenure as Secretary of the Interior, Ickes was involved in journalism and law. He worked as a reporter for the Chicago Record and later practiced law in Chicago. Ickes was also active in progressive politics, supporting the campaigns of Theodore Roosevelt and Robert M. La Follette.

Secretary of the Interior

Ickes was appointed Secretary of the Interior by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933. He was instrumental in the administration of the Public Works Administration (PWA), which was created to combat the economic effects of the Great Depression by funding large-scale public works projects. Under Ickes' leadership, the PWA funded the construction of schools, hospitals, bridges, and dams, including the famous Hoover Dam.

Ickes was known for his commitment to conservation and worked to expand the National Park Service. He also advocated for the rights of Native Americans and was involved in the implementation of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934.

Later Career and Legacy

After resigning from his position in 1946, Ickes continued to be active in public affairs. He wrote a syndicated newspaper column and several books, including his autobiography, "The Autobiography of a Curmudgeon."

Harold Ickes passed away on February 3, 1952, in Washington, D.C.. His legacy includes his contributions to the New Deal, his efforts in conservation, and his advocacy for civil rights.

Personal Life

Ickes was married twice. His first marriage was to Anna Wilmarth Thompson, with whom he had one son, Raymond. After Anna's death, he married Jane Dahlman.

See Also

• New Deal
• Public Works Administration
• Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Harry S. Truman
• Hoover Dam
• Indian Reorganization Act

External Links

‎