Master's Theses

Department

History

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Jerry Simpson, Medicine Lodge, Kansas, was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1890, 1892, and 1896; he was defeated in races in 1894 and 1898. Allegedly his first election resulted from his exposure of a naked foot during a campaign speech in which he claimed to be too poor to buy socks. This report traces the life history of Jerry Simpson, emphasizing particularly his relationships with his constituents. The 1890 election campaign is dealt with in some detail, the apocryphal "sockless" story being relegated to a footnote. The writer believes abnormal economic conditions caused the election of Jerry Simpson as a protest; returning prosperity resulted in his defeat. A new economic issue caused his comeback in 1896: new prosperity and an outbreak of nationalism retired him in 1898. His career illustrates that a democracy can discover and develop leaders who truly represent the majority of their people and discard them when they have served their purpose.

Keywords

Jerry Simpson (1842-1905), Kansas--History, Politicians, Men, Political campaigns, Medicine Lodge (Kan.)

Advisor

Dr. Raymond L. Welty

Date of Award

Spring 1959

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© The Author(s)

Comments

For questions contact ScholarsRepository@fhsu.edu

Download

Off Campus FHSU Users Click Here

Share

COinS