George Hazelton

George Cochrane Hazelton was an American lawyer and politician who served as a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Wisconsin's 3rd congressional district from 1877 until 1883. His political career was marked by three consecutive terms in Congress, during which he engaged in various legislative activities. After his time in the House, he continued his legal career and held the position of the first appointed attorney general of the District of Columbia. Hazelton's life spanned from January 3, 1832, until September 4, 1922, and he is remembered for his contributions to both state and national politics.

Early life and career

George Hazelton was born in Chester, New Hampshire, on January 3, 1832. He was the son of William and Mercy Jane Hazelton and grew up in a family that valued education. Hazelton attended local district schools during his formative years, where he began to develop a foundation for his future academic and professional pursuits. To further his education, he prepared for college at Pinkerton Academy in New Hampshire and subsequently attended Dummer Academy in Massachusetts. His academic journey culminated in his graduation from Union College in Schenectady, New York, in 1858.

Following his graduation, Hazelton pursued a career in law. He studied the legal profession and was admitted to the bar in Malone, New York. This marked the beginning of his legal career, which would eventually lead him to Wisconsin. In the mid-19th century, Hazelton relocated to Boscobel, Wisconsin, where he established himself as a practicing attorney. His legal expertise and community involvement soon led to his appointment as the prosecuting attorney for Grant County, Wisconsin, a position he held from 1864 to 1868. This role allowed him to gain valuable experience in the legal system and to build a reputation within the community.

In 1867, Hazelton's political ambitions began to take shape when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate. His tenure in the state senate was marked by his reelection in 1869, during which he served as president pro tempore. This position allowed him to play a significant role in legislative proceedings and to influence state policy. His experience in the state legislature laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in national politics.

House tenure

Hazelton's entry into national politics came when he was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives. He served three consecutive terms during the Forty-fifth, Forty-sixth, and Forty-seventh Congresses, representing Wisconsin's 3rd congressional district from 1877 to 1883. His election to Congress was part of a broader trend of Republican representation during this period, as the party sought to solidify its influence in the wake of the Civil War and Reconstruction.

During his time in the House, Hazelton participated in various legislative activities and contributed to discussions on a range of issues. His tenure coincided with a period of significant change in American society, including debates over civil rights, immigration, and economic policy. Hazelton's political stance aligned with the Republican Party's platform, which often emphasized issues related to economic development and national unity.

Despite his initial success in securing a seat in Congress, Hazelton faced challenges in his political career. He was an unsuccessful candidate for renomination in 1882, which marked the end of his congressional tenure. After leaving the House, he relocated to Washington, D.C., where he continued to practice law. His legal career in the capital city would eventually lead to his appointment as the first attorney general of the District of Columbia during the Harrison administration. This position allowed him to further influence legal and political matters in the nation’s capital.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Hazelton was involved in various legislative matters, although specific details regarding his committee assignments and legislative initiatives are not extensively documented. His political alignment with the Republican Party placed him in a context where issues of national importance were frequently debated. During the late 19th century, Congress grappled with a range of topics, including economic policy, immigration, and civil rights, which were particularly pertinent during the Reconstruction era and beyond.

Hazelton's views on immigration reflected the sentiments of a significant portion of his contemporaries. He was part of a group of congressmen who advocated for doctrines of racial superiority, expressing concerns about the immigration of what he termed "unworthy" races. His perspectives on immigration were indicative of the broader societal attitudes of the time, which often included xenophobic sentiments and a belief in the superiority of certain racial and ethnic groups. These views contributed to the national discourse on immigration policy and the treatment of immigrant populations in the United States.

In addition to his legislative focus, Hazelton's legal background informed his approach to various issues. His experience as a prosecuting attorney and later as a practicing lawyer provided him with insights into the legal implications of the legislation being considered in Congress. This legal expertise likely influenced his contributions to discussions on law and governance during his time in office.

After his congressional career, Hazelton's appointment as the attorney general of the District of Columbia marked a significant transition in his professional life. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing legal matters within the district and ensuring the enforcement of laws. His tenure in this position allowed him to continue his involvement in public service and to contribute to the legal framework of the nation’s capital.

In summary, George Cochrane Hazelton's life and career were characterized by a commitment to public service and law. His journey from a small-town lawyer to a U.S. Representative and later the attorney general of the District of Columbia reflects the opportunities and challenges faced by politicians in the late 19th century. His legacy is intertwined with the broader historical context of American politics during a transformative period in the nation's history. Hazelton passed away on September 4, 1922, in Chester, New Hampshire, at the age of 90, leaving behind a complex legacy shaped by his legal and political endeavors.