Ellis Roberts

Ellis Roberts was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative from New York's 22nd congressional district during the early 1870s. A member of the Republican Party, Roberts held office in the Forty-second and Forty-third Congresses from March 4, 1871, until March 3, 1875. Following his congressional tenure, he continued to engage in public service and banking, eventually becoming the Treasurer of the United States. His political career was marked by a strong advocacy for protectionist economic policies and a commitment to fostering domestic industry.

Early life and career

Ellis Henry Roberts was born on September 30, 1827, in Utica, Oneida County, New York. He received his early education in local common schools and attended the Whitestown Seminary. In 1850, he graduated from Yale College, where he was involved in several student organizations, including Alpha Delta Phi and Skull and Bones. Following his graduation, Roberts took on the role of principal at the Utica Free Academy for a brief period in 1850 and 1851.

In 1851, he transitioned into journalism, becoming the editor and proprietor of the Utica Morning Herald, a position he held until 1889. His involvement in journalism not only shaped his career but also provided him with a platform to influence public opinion and engage in political discourse. In addition to his newspaper work, Roberts was active in politics, serving as a delegate to the Republican National Conventions in 1864, 1868, and 1876. His political engagement deepened when he was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1867, representing Oneida County's 2nd District.

House tenure

Roberts was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican, serving in the Forty-second and Forty-third Congresses from March 4, 1871, to March 3, 1875. During his time in Congress, he participated in legislative discussions and decisions that reflected his party's platform and his personal beliefs regarding economic policy. His tenure was characterized by a focus on protectionism, which he believed was essential for the growth and sustainability of American industries.

Despite his efforts, Roberts was not successful in his bid for re-election in 1874 to the Forty-fourth Congress. Following his departure from Congress, he returned to his previous work in journalism and continued to engage in public service. His career took another turn when he was appointed as the Assistant Treasurer of the United States from 1889 to 1893. He later served as the president of the Franklin National Bank of New York City from 1893 to 1897.

Roberts's political career culminated in his appointment as the Treasurer of the United States on July 1, 1897. He held this position until June 30, 1905, when he resigned. After leaving the Treasury, he returned to banking and continued to be active in financial matters until his passing.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Roberts was a staunch advocate for protectionist economic policies. He believed that the government should prioritize the development of domestic industries over foreign commerce. His views were informed by a belief in the importance of fostering a diverse range of employment opportunities within the United States, which he argued would lead to greater economic stability and prosperity.

Roberts's advocacy for protectionism was rooted in his interpretation of the American System, which emphasized the need for government support in developing domestic markets. He argued that low tariffs and free trade had historically harmed American industries, leading to economic downturns. In contrast, he maintained that a protective tariff system would bolster domestic production and create a favorable environment for American businesses to thrive. He viewed the home market as a critical asset that should be preserved and strengthened, warning against the dangers of excessive reliance on foreign trade.

In his economic philosophy, Roberts drew inspiration from historical figures such as Alexander Hamilton, who advocated for a strong governmental role in promoting domestic manufacturing and commerce. He believed that Hamilton's ideas about the importance of protecting American industries were relevant to the challenges facing the nation in his time. Roberts argued that the United States should not emulate British economic practices that prioritized foreign commerce at the expense of domestic production. He emphasized the need for fair competition and the importance of maintaining a strong navy only for the purpose of protecting American interests rather than forcing trade upon unwilling nations.

Roberts's commitment to protectionism extended to his involvement with the American Protective Tariff League, where he worked alongside others who shared his views on the necessity of tariffs to support American industry. He contended that a diverse economy, supported by a robust manufacturing sector, was essential for reducing poverty and enhancing the overall welfare of the population. His legislative focus reflected a broader vision for the United States as a self-sufficient nation capable of meeting its own needs through domestic production.

Ellis Roberts passed away on January 8, 1918, in Utica, New York. He was interred at Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica, leaving behind a legacy as a politician who championed protectionist policies and sought to strengthen American industries through legislative action. His contributions to the political landscape of his time continue to be studied and discussed in the context of American economic history.