Al Smith

Date of Birth: December 30, 1873

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: October 4, 1944

Biography

Alfred Emanuel Smith, commonly known as Al Smith, was an influential American politician who served as the Governor of New York and was the Democratic Party’s candidate for President in 1928. Born to a working-class family, Smith became known for his advocacy for urban working-class citizens and his opposition to prohibition. His political career began in the New York State Assembly, where he served from 1904 to 1915, eventually becoming Speaker of the Assembly. Smith then served as Governor of New York from 1919 to 1920 and again from 1923 to 1928. Despite his loss in the 1928 presidential election to Herbert Hoover, Smith remained a significant figure in American politics and was instrumental in the establishment of the Empire State Building, reflecting his lasting impact on New York City’s skyline.

5 Interesting Facts about Al Smith

1. Al Smith was the first Roman Catholic to be nominated for President by a major party in the United States.

2. He played a pivotal role in the construction of the Empire State Building.

3. Smith was a fierce opponent of Prohibition, believing it infringed on personal liberties.

4. He was a key figure in the Progressive Movement, advocating for labor reforms and social welfare programs.

5. Al Smith’s legacy is honored annually with the Al Smith Dinner, a prominent charitable fundraiser held in New York City.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Al Smith

1. “The American people never carry an umbrella. They prepare to walk in eternal sunshine.”

2. “No sane local official who has hung up an empty stocking over the municipal fireplace is going to shoot Santa Claus just before a hard Christmas.”

3. “All the ills of democracy can be cured by more democracy.”

4. “Be simple in words, manners, and gestures. Amusing yourself and showing that you are amused are often the same thing.”

5. “Nobody shoots at Santa Claus.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Al Smith’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, largely due to his investments and involvement in the construction of the Empire State Building. Adjusted for inflation, this would be significantly higher today.

Children

Al Smith and his wife, Catherine Dunn, had five children: Alfred E. Smith Jr., Emily Smith Warner, Catherine Smith, Arthur Smith, and Walter Smith. His children continued his legacy of public service and philanthropy in various capacities.