William Edgar Borah

Republican Senator of Idaho

Congresses Served

Senate Terms

January 1, 1865 (75 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 1940

Death

Served as a United States Senator from 1907 until his death in 1940.
Known for his progressive views and strong isolationist stance, particularly in opposition to the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations.
Gained national prominence through high-profile legal cases, including the prosecution of Big Bill Haywood.
Played a significant role in the passage of the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Amendments to the Constitution.
Held various committee chairmanships, including the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Advocated for women’s suffrage but opposed a federal amendment, believing states should decide the issue.
Ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 1936 but faced opposition from party leadership.
Known for his independent and often maverick political positions, which sometimes limited his effectiveness as a reformer.
His legacy includes a statue in the National Statuary Hall Collection and a peak in Idaho named in his honor.
Remembered for his oratory skills and as a significant figure in American reform politics during his time.