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.