Served as the 33rd Secretary of the Navy from 1893 to 1897, overseeing the modernization of the US Navy and advocating for a stronger naval presence. He's also known for his historical writings on the American Civil War.
Hilary Abner Herbert is best known for his tenure as the Secretary of the Navy in President Grover Cleveland's second administration, where he played a pivotal role in the revival of the US Navy. During his time in Congress, Herbert was a strong advocate for the navy, chairing the Committee on Naval Affairs and securing increased appropriations to strengthen the country's naval capabilities.
Herbert was born on March 12, 1834, in Laurensville, South Carolina, and moved to Greenville, Alabama, with his family in 1846. He pursued higher education at the University of Alabama and the University of Virginia, where he was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity's Eta chapter.
Herbert entered the Confederate Army as a second lieutenant during the Civil War. He served as captain of the Greenville Guards and was later promoted to colonel of the Eighth Regiment, Alabama Infantry. Herbert was wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness on May 6, 1864. After the war, he returned to his law practice in Greenville, Alabama.
In 1877, Herbert was elected to Congress from Montgomery, Alabama, as a Democrat. He served eight terms in this office, becoming a prominent figure in the country's political landscape. During his tenure, Herbert was a vocal advocate for the navy, pushing for increased funding to strengthen the country's naval capabilities.
Herbert's contributions to the US Navy were significant, and his efforts led to the revival of the country's naval power. Although he favored a more limited naval program than Secretary of the Navy Benjamin F. Tracy, he was instrumental in securing appropriations that paved the way for the construction of modern battleships.
Despite his achievements, Herbert was not without controversy. He was a vocal opponent of the Reconstruction Acts and was known for his racist views, particularly in his opposition to granting suffrage to African Americans. Herbert's public feud with paleontologist Othniel Charles Marsh over funding for the United States Geological Survey also stirred controversy.
Hilary A. Herbert's legacy extends beyond his political career. His commitment to strengthening the US Navy paved the way for the country's emergence as a global naval power. His contributions to the country's growth and development continue to be felt today.
Born in 1858
A pioneering leader who championed progressive reforms, trust-busting, and conservation, earning a Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War. He's also famous for his rugged outdoorsmanship and "big stick" diplomacy.
Born in 1843
The 25th President of the United States, a strong leader who championed high tariffs and annexed Hawaii, is most known for being assassinated at the 1901 World's Fair. He played a significant role in shaping the country's economy and foreign policy.
82 Years Old
A German-Canadian singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, known for his eclectic style blending rock, folk, and blues, and as the frontman of the rock band Steppenwolf. He's famous for hits like "Born to Be Wild" and "Magic Carpet Ride".
Born in 1845
A prominent lawyer and politician who served as Secretary of State, earning a Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic efforts. He's most known for his work in international arbitration and conflict resolution.
Born in 1867
A prominent figure in American politics, serving as Secretary of State and playing a key role in shaping foreign policy during World War II. He's also known for his advocacy of international cooperation and collective security.
Born in 1874
A prominent publisher and politician who served as the 46th Secretary of the Navy, playing a crucial role in preparing the US Navy for World War II. He's most known for his efforts in modernizing the Navy and increasing its strength during wartime.
Born in 1892
First U.S. Secretary of Defense, playing a crucial role in shaping the country's military strategy and policy during the early Cold War era. He's also known for his mysterious death, which sparked numerous conspiracy theories.
84 Years Old
A pioneering female singer-songwriter in the 1970s, known for her soulful voice and genre-bending blend of folk, rock, and R&B. She was a key figure in the women's music movement, empowering female artists and audiences alike.
