JH
John H. Reagan
11quotes
Full Name and Common Aliases
John Henninger Reagan
Birth and Death Dates
October 8, 1818 - March 6, 1905
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Lawyer, Politician
Early Life and Background
Born in Sevier County, Tennessee, John H. Reagan was the second of ten children to William and Jane (née Henninger) Reagan. His family moved frequently during his childhood, eventually settling in Arkansas where he spent most of his youth. Despite limited formal education, Reagan developed a strong interest in reading and law, eventually studying under a local judge.
Major Accomplishments
Reagan's entry into politics began in 1856 when he was elected to the Texas State Senate. He served for eight years before being appointed as the Postmaster General of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. After the war, Reagan returned to Texas and entered politics once more, serving as a U.S. Senator from 1867-1869 and again in 1875-1887. During this period, he advocated for the expansion of public education and infrastructure development.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his time in office, Reagan was a vocal advocate for the establishment of a national railroad system, which would eventually become the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC). He also supported the creation of the U.S. Bureau of Education, an early precursor to the modern-day Department of Education.
Impact and Legacy
Reagan's influence on American politics and education cannot be overstated. His efforts in support of public education helped lay the groundwork for the landmark 1965 Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). This legislation would go on to shape federal involvement in education policy for generations to come.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Today, John H. Reagan is remembered as a champion of education and infrastructure development. His quotes often touch on the importance of investing in these areas, particularly for the benefit of future generations. A selection from his speeches, "The great purpose of our schools should be to foster a love of learning which will endure throughout life; to give healthful exercise to the mind as well as to the body," highlights his enduring commitment to education.
Reagan's legacy extends beyond his own time in office, however. His contributions have had lasting impacts on American policy and society as a whole. As such, he remains an important figure in both educational and historical circles, providing valuable insights into the importance of investing in public infrastructure and education for future generations.
Quotes by John H. Reagan
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The Constitution of the United States was made by white men, the citizens and representatives of twelve slaveholding and one non-slaveholding State; and it was made for white men.
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The doctrines of his party, are that negro slavery, as it exists with us, is religiously, morally, socially, and politically wrong.
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But I can tell you what your folly and injustice will compel us to do. It will compel us to be free from your domination, and more self-reliant than we have been.
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The irrepressible conflict propounded by abolitionism has produced now its legitimate fruits - disunion.
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It is proclaimed by the great leaders of that party, by its political conventions, by its ministers of the Gospel, and by every other means they have of giving currency and importance to the declaration, that it is its mission to abolish slavery in the Union.
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The success of those doctrines would also subvert the Federal Constitution, change the character of the Federal Government, and destroy our rights in respect to slavery.
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You are not content with the vast millions of tribute we pay you annually under the operation of our revenue law, our navigation laws, your fishing bounties, and by making your people our manufacturers, our merchants, our shippers.
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You are not satisfied with the millions of tribute we have been paying you on account of the balance of exchange which you hold against us.
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Our own Government succeeded because none but the white race, who were capable of self-government, were enfranchised with the rights of freemen.
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The people of the Southern States now own near five millions of these negroes, and they are worth to them near three millions of dollars.
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