George William Norris

Date of Birth: July 11, 1861

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 2, 1944

Biography

George William Norris was an American politician who was born on July 11, 1861, in Sandusky County, Ohio. He became one of the most influential and progressive members of the United States Congress, serving five terms in the House of Representatives from 1903 to 1913, and five terms in the Senate from 1913 to 1943. Norris is best known for his advocacy of public power, his role in the creation of the Tennessee Valley Authority, and his instrumental part in the passage of the 20th Amendment, which changed the dates of congressional and presidential terms. He was also a staunch opponent of the war industry and worked tirelessly to ensure that government decisions were made in the best interest of the public. Norris’s political career was marked by his independence; he was initially a Republican but often broke with party lines to support progressive and populist causes. Later, he identified as an Independent. His legislative achievements and dedication to public service earned him a reputation as a champion of the common man, and he is often celebrated for his integrity and commitment to reform.

5 Interesting Facts about George William Norris

1. George W. Norris was a key figure in the establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority, which aimed to provide affordable electricity and improve economic conditions in the Tennessee Valley.

2. He played a significant role in the passage of the 20th Amendment, which is often called the “Lame Duck Amendment.”

3. Norris was known for his opposition to U.S. involvement in World War I and was one of the few senators to vote against the declaration of war on Germany in 1917.

4. He was a strong advocate for public ownership of utilities and fought against the monopolistic practices of private utility companies.

5. Norris was a proponent of the unicameral legislature in Nebraska, which remains the only state with a single-chamber legislative body.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George William Norris

1. “I would rather go down to my political grave with a clear conscience than ride in the chariot of victory.”

2. “The progressive character of the human race necessitates conflict. This conflict is waged between right and wrong, between progress and retrogression, between hope and fear, between truth and error.”

3. “Public control of public utilities is demanded in the interest of the public.”

4. “The greatest good for the greatest number is the foundation of all law and the aim of all government.”

5. “War brings no prosperity to the great mass of common and unaffected people. It is the harvest of the few.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George William Norris’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a lifelong public servant, he was not known for personal wealth accumulation. His legacy is more rooted in his legislative achievements and public service.