Henry Thomas Rainey

Henry Thomas Rainey (August 20, 1860 – August 19, 1934) was an influential American politician who served as the 43rd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1933 until his death in 1934. A member of the Democratic Party, Rainey represented Illinois in the United States House of Representatives for several terms.

Early Life and Education

Henry T. Rainey was born in Carrollton, Illinois, where he attended the local public schools. He pursued higher education at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, before transferring to the University of Michigan, where he graduated in 1883. Rainey furthered his education at the Union College of Law (now known as Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law), where he earned his law degree.

Political Career

Rainey began his political career in the Illinois State Legislature, serving terms in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. He was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1902. Over his career, Rainey was known for his expertise in matters of taxation and monetary policy, and he played a significant role in the legislative efforts during the Great Depression.

As Speaker, Rainey was instrumental in the passage of key components of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, including the Agricultural Adjustment Act and the Tennessee Valley Authority Act. His leadership was marked by a strong commitment to the Democratic agenda, and he was a close ally of President Roosevelt during these critical years.

Death and Legacy

Henry T. Rainey died in office on August 19, 1934, just one day before his 74th birthday. His death was mourned as a significant loss to the Democratic Party and the nation. Rainey was succeeded by Joseph W. Byrns Sr. as Speaker of the House.

Rainey's tenure as Speaker, though brief, was marked by significant legislative achievements that helped shape the economic policy of the United States during the Great Depression. His efforts in supporting the New Deal legislation have left a lasting impact on American political and social history.

See Also

• List of Speakers of the United States House of Representatives
• New Deal
• Great Depression

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|style="width:30%;" rowspan="1"|Preceded by

James R. Williams

| style="width: 40%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from [[Illinois's congressional district]]
1903–1921

| style="width: 30%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"|

Succeeded by

Scott W. Lucas

|- |- style="text-align:center;"

|style="width:30%;" rowspan="1"|Preceded by

Scott W. Lucas

| style="width: 40%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from [[Illinois's congressional district]]
1923–1934

| style="width: 30%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"|

Succeeded by

Scott W. Lucas

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