Joseph Gurney Cannon

Joseph_Gurney_Cannon_-_Brady-Handy

PuckMagazine30Sep1908

Senator_George_W._Norris

Postcard_showing_Joseph_Cannon_residence_in_Danville,_Illinois,_USA_circa_1913

Joseph Gurney Cannon (May 7, 1836 – November 12, 1926) was an American politician from Illinois and leader of the Republican Party. He served as the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1903 to 1911. Cannon's tenure as Speaker was notable for his strong control over the legislative process, earning him the nickname "Czar Cannon."

Early Life and Career[edit | edit source]

Joseph Gurney Cannon was born in Guilford County, North Carolina. He moved to Indiana with his family in 1840. Cannon studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1858, beginning his practice in Terre Haute, Indiana. He later moved to Tuscola, Illinois, where he continued his legal career.

Political Career[edit | edit source]

Cannon was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives in 1872, representing Illinois's 14th congressional district. He served in the House for 46 years, with a brief interruption from 1891 to 1893. During his time in Congress, Cannon held various leadership positions, including Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

Speaker of the House[edit | edit source]

Cannon became Speaker of the House in 1903. As Speaker, he wielded significant power over the legislative agenda and committee assignments. His leadership style was often described as autocratic, and he was known for his ability to block legislation he opposed. This centralization of power led to the "Cannon Revolt" in 1910, where a coalition of Democrats and progressive Republicans stripped him of some of his powers.

Later Years and Legacy[edit | edit source]

After losing the Speakership, Cannon continued to serve in the House until 1923. He retired from politics and passed away in 1926 in Danville, Illinois. Cannon's legacy is mixed; he is remembered for his strong leadership and influence over the House, but also for his resistance to progressive reforms.