Wally Hickel

Walter Joseph Hickel was an American businessman, real estate developer, and politician who served as the second governor of Alaska. He held office from 1966 to 1969 and again from 1990 to 1994. Hickel was also appointed as the U.S. Secretary of the Interior under President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1970. Known for his moderate Republican stance and environmental concerns, he played a significant role in Alaska's political landscape during his time in office and beyond.

Early life and career

Wally Hickel was born on August 18, 1919, in Ellinwood, Kansas. He was the son of Emma Pauline Zecha and Robert Anton Hickel. Growing up during the Great Depression, Hickel spent his early years on his parents' tenant farm in Kansas, which was affected by the Dust Bowl. In search of better opportunities, he moved to Alaska in October 1940, traveling aboard the S.S. Yukon with 95 other passengers. Upon his arrival, he entered the local real estate industry and quickly established himself as a prominent figure in construction.

By 1947, Hickel had founded a successful construction company, which contributed to the development of residential subdivisions, shopping centers, and hotels in Alaska. His business acumen and involvement in construction laid the groundwork for his future political career. During the late 1940s and into the 1950s, Hickel became increasingly active in advocating for Alaskan statehood, aligning himself with the Democratic Party's efforts during this period. His political engagement coincided with the broader movement for Alaska's admission as a state, culminating in the signing of the Alaska Statehood Act by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958.

In the 1950s, Hickel transitioned to the Republican Party, serving as the finance chairman. He sought the territorial governorship in 1952 but was not appointed. Nevertheless, he remained active in local politics, eventually becoming the head of the Anchorage Republican Club. His efforts to strengthen the Republican Party in Alaska included advocating for changes in party leadership and addressing local political issues.

Governorship

Hickel's political ambitions culminated in his election as Alaska's second governor in the 1966 state general elections. He defeated the incumbent governor, Bill Egan, marking a significant moment in Alaska's political history as Hickel became the first Republican to hold the governorship. His administration coincided with the discovery of substantial oil reserves at Prudhoe Bay in 1968, a development that would have lasting implications for the state's economy and politics.

During his first term, which lasted until 1969, Hickel's administration took steps to manage the state's natural resources. Although he was a moderate Republican and an environmentalist, he approved the sale of oil leases on 37,000 acres of the North Slope early in his tenure, despite facing opposition from Alaskan Natives. His administration also initiated the construction of a significant roadway, known as the Hickel Highway, which connected Livengood to Prudhoe Bay.

Hickel's governorship was marked by efforts to improve relations with Alaskan Natives and address their land claims. His campaign received support from Native leaders, and he sought to engage with their concerns during his time in office. In 1968, he appointed Ted Stevens to the United States Senate, filling the vacancy left by the death of Bob Bartlett.

In 1969, following Richard Nixon's election as President, Hickel was offered the position of U.S. Secretary of the Interior. Initially hesitant, he ultimately resigned from the governorship to accept the appointment. His nomination was met with significant opposition, including allegations of corruption and anti-environmentalism, which he later described as unfounded. Despite the controversy, Hickel was confirmed by the Senate and took office.

Policy focus and legacy

As Secretary of the Interior, Hickel advocated for environmental protections and responsible management of natural resources. He supported legislation that imposed liabilities on oil companies operating offshore rigs and emphasized the need for environmental safeguards in Alaska's burgeoning oil industry. His centrist approach often put him at odds with other members of the Nixon administration, particularly regarding the Vietnam War and its impact on American youth.

Hickel's tenure as Secretary of the Interior was marked by a notable incident in 1970 when he publicly criticized Nixon's Vietnam War policies in a letter, urging the administration to consider the perspectives of young Americans. This dissent attracted significant media attention and ultimately led to his dismissal from the cabinet later that year.

After leaving the federal government, Hickel returned to Alaska and remained active in politics. He was elected to a second term as governor in 1990, this time under the banner of the Alaskan Independence Party. His second governorship focused on issues relevant to Alaskan sovereignty and the state's unique political landscape.

Hickel's legacy is characterized by his contributions to Alaska's political development, particularly in relation to statehood, resource management, and environmental policy. His dual terms as governor and his role as Secretary of the Interior illustrate his influence on both state and national levels. Hickel passed away on May 7, 2010, leaving behind a complex legacy that reflects the challenges and opportunities of governing Alaska during a transformative period in its history.