Thomas R. Marshall

Date of Birth: March 14, 1854

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: June 1, 1925

Biography

Thomas Riley Marshall was born on March 14, 1854, in North Manchester, Indiana. He was an American lawyer and politician who served as the 28th Vice President of the United States from 1913 to 1921 under President Woodrow Wilson. A member of the Democratic Party, Marshall was previously the Governor of Indiana from 1909 to 1913. He was known for his wit and humor, often using it to navigate the complexities of political life. Marshall graduated from Wabash College in 1873 and was admitted to the Indiana bar in 1875. He quickly established a successful legal practice. His political career began in earnest when he was elected Governor of Indiana, where he focused on progressive reforms in education, labor laws, and public health. As Vice President, Marshall is perhaps best remembered for his quip, “What this country needs is a good five-cent cigar,” highlighting his sardonic take on political issues of the day. Despite his humor, he played a significant role during Wilson’s incapacitation following a stroke, although he did not assume presidential duties due to the lack of clear constitutional guidelines at the time. Marshall retired from politics after his vice presidency and returned to Indiana, where he continued to write and practice law until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas R. Marshall

1. Thomas R. Marshall was the first Vice President to serve two consecutive terms since John Adams.

2. He was a vocal critic of Prohibition, believing it to be an overreach of government power.

3. Marshall was known for his wit, once famously saying, “What this country needs is a good five-cent cigar.”

4. He authored several books, including his autobiography, “Recollections of Thomas R. Marshall: A Hoosier Salad.”

5. During President Wilson’s incapacitation, Marshall did not assume presidential duties due to the lack of a clear constitutional process.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas R. Marshall

1. “What this country needs is a good five-cent cigar.”

2. “Once there were two brothers. One ran away to sea, the other was elected Vice President of the United States. And nothing was ever heard of either of them again.”

3. “It is better to be a has-been than a never-was.”

4. “If you want to make enemies, try to change something.”

5. “The office of vice president is not worth a bucket of warm spit.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Marshall’s net worth was never publicly disclosed, but it is estimated that his highest net worth was modest compared to today’s politicians, likely not exceeding $100,000 at his peak.