Stuart Symington
Stuart Symington
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Stuart Ashmun Symington was born on November 26, 1901, and died on December 10, 1988. He is often referred to as Senator Stuart Symington.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: November 26, 1901
Died: December 10, 1988
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Symington was an American politician of the Democratic Party who served as a United States Senator from Missouri. He also had a career in business, serving as the president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) from 1965 to 1974.
Early Life and Background
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Stuart Symington was born in Boston, Massachusetts, but his family moved to St. Louis, Missouri, when he was just a child. He grew up in a wealthy family and was educated at Phillips Exeter Academy before attending Yale University, where he graduated with honors in 1923.
After college, Symington worked as a stockbroker for several years before joining the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) in 1938. During World War II, he served as a lieutenant commander in the United States Navy, responsible for developing aircraft procurement policies.
Major Accomplishments
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Symington's most notable achievement was his service as a United States Senator from Missouri from 1953 to 1976. He played a key role in shaping aviation policy and was a strong advocate for civil rights, consumer protection, and environmental issues.
During his time in the Senate, Symington chaired the Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences and served as a member of the Foreign Relations Committee. He also sponsored several landmark pieces of legislation, including the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970.
Notable Works or Actions
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One of Symington's most notable actions was his leadership in developing the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, which reformed the aviation industry and established the modern framework for civil aviation regulation. He also played a key role in the development of the Apollo space program, working closely with NASA to ensure that American commercial airlines were equipped to handle the needs of the growing space industry.
In addition to his work on aviation policy, Symington was a vocal advocate for consumer protection and environmental issues. He sponsored several bills aimed at regulating advertising practices and protecting consumers from unfair business practices, as well as legislation aimed at preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable development.
Impact and Legacy
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Stuart Symington's impact on American politics and society cannot be overstated. As a senator, he played a key role in shaping the country's aviation policy and advocating for consumer protection and environmental issues. His work on the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 had a lasting impact on the industry, establishing the modern framework for civil aviation regulation.
Symington's commitment to public service and his dedication to the welfare of American citizens have made him a beloved figure in Missouri politics. He is widely remembered as one of the most effective and influential senators of his generation.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Stuart Symington is widely quoted or remembered for his insightful comments on aviation policy, consumer protection, and environmental issues. His commitment to public service and his dedication to the welfare of American citizens have made him a respected figure in Missouri politics.
Symington's quotes often reflect his passion for public service and his commitment to protecting the rights of consumers and workers. He is frequently cited as a leading advocate for progressive causes and has been recognized for his leadership on issues such as aviation policy, consumer protection, and environmental preservation.
Quotes by Stuart Symington

Later the Administration wanted me to actually sell all remaining surplus by running the War Assets Corporation. I said I couldn’t do it without some shoe leather.

In 1941 the War Production Board asked if I would go to England and find out how to build the first power gun turret plant in the United States.


It all went back to problems we had talked about before, you know, such as the British not believing in formation bombing and not believing in daytime bombing.

Mr. Truman studiously avoided giving power to his White House staff that has been characteristic of recent administrations. Staff people in the White House, with no responsibility but incredible authority is one of the reasons we're now in so much trouble.

Later the Administration wanted me to actually sell all remaining surplus by running the War Assets Corporation. I said I couldn't do it without some shoe leather.

I had learned many years ago in private business never to take responsibility without adequate authority; and the new Secretary of Defense, as budgets were sharply cut, quickly found that out.


