George W. McCrary

George Washington McCrary (August 29, 1835 – June 23, 1890) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the United States Secretary of War from 1877 to 1879 under President Rutherford B. Hayes.

Early life and education

McCrary was born in Evansville, Indiana, and later moved to Iowa with his family. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1856, beginning his practice in Keokuk, Iowa.

Political career

McCrary was elected as a Republican to the United States House of Representatives, serving from 1869 to 1877. During his time in Congress, he was known for his work on the Electoral Commission that decided the disputed United States presidential election of 1876.

In 1877, President Hayes appointed McCrary as Secretary of War. During his tenure, McCrary focused on modernizing the United States Army and improving military education.

Later life

After leaving the Cabinet, McCrary was appointed as a judge of the United States Circuit Court for the Eighth Circuit, serving from 1879 until his resignation in 1884. He then returned to private practice in Kansas City, Missouri.

Death

George W. McCrary died on June 23, 1890, in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Legacy

McCrary's contributions to the modernization of the U.S. Army and his role in the Electoral Commission are notable aspects of his legacy.

References

• John,

 The Life and Times of George W. McCrary, 
  
 Historical Press, 
 1900,

George W. McCrary Biography(link). Biography.com.

External links

• George W. McCrary at the U.S. Army Center of Military History