Smith, Hoke

Smith, Hoke, 1855–1931, American political leader, b. Newton, N.C. A successful lawyer in Atlanta, he acquired the Atlanta Journal in 1887. He served (1893–96) in President Cleveland's cabinet as Secretary of the Interior. He later was governor of Georgia (1907–9, 1911) and U.S. Senator (1911–21). As governor he vigorously supported railroad regulation, educational reform, and direct primary legislation. He won popularity among white Southerners by his racist policies and he helped disenfranchise Georgia blacks. After his defeat (1920) for reelection, he returned to the practice of law.

Bibliography

See biography by D. W. Grantham, Jr. (1958, repr. 1967).

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Smith, Hoke

(born Sept. 2, 1855, Newton, N.C., U.S.—died Nov. 27, 1931, Atlanta, Ga.) U.S. politician. He was publisher of the Atlanta Journal (1887–1900), which he used to promote progressive measures (except civil rights for African Americans). He served as U.S. secretary of the interior (1893–96). As governor of Georgia (1907–09, 1911), he improved education, transportation, and prison conditions. Elected to the U.S. Senate (1911–21), he supported progressive legislation but opposed U.S. participation in the League of Nations.