William Boyd Allison

Republican Senator of Iowa

Congresses Served

House Terms

Senate Terms

March 2, 1829 (79 years old)

Birthday

August 4, 1908

Death

Served as a prominent leader in the Iowa Republican Party and held significant positions in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.
Elected to the House in 1862, serving four terms before moving to the Senate in 1872, where he remained until his death in 1908.
Became one of the “big four” key Republicans in the Senate during the 1890s, influencing major legislation and party direction.
Chaired the Senate Appropriations Committee for most of his Senate career, making him the longest-serving chairman in that role.
Advocated for higher tariffs and played a crucial role in the passage of significant tariff legislation, including the McKinley Tariff and the Dingley Act.
Instrumental in the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which restored bimetallism in a limited manner.
Known for his centrist and pragmatic approach, often bridging divides between different factions within the Senate.
Declined multiple offers to join presidential cabinets, indicating a preference for his legislative role.
Emerged as a candidate for the presidency in 1896 but lost support to William McKinley.
Died shortly after winning a primary for a seventh Senate term, reflecting his long-standing influence in Iowa politics.