Al Smith

Alfred E. Smith

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Alfred E. Smith

Alfred Emanuel Smith (December 30, 1873 – October 4, 1944) was an American politician who served as the 42nd Governor of New York and was the Democratic Party's candidate for President of the United States in 1928. Smith was a notable figure in the history of the Democratic Party and a prominent leader of the Progressive Era.

Early Life and Education

Alfred E. Smith was born in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City, to Catherine and Alfred Smith. He attended St. James School, a parochial school in Manhattan, where he received his primary education.

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St. James School, New York

Smith's early life was marked by the challenges of growing up in a working-class family. His father passed away when he was young, and Smith left school at the age of 14 to help support his family.

Political Career

New York State Assembly

Smith began his political career in 1903 when he was elected to the New York State Assembly. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the Speaker of the Assembly in 1913.

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Al Smith at his desk in 1913

Governor of New York

Smith served four terms as the Governor of New York, from 1919 to 1920 and from 1923 to 1928. During his tenure, he implemented numerous reforms, including improvements in labor laws, social welfare, and infrastructure.

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Portrait of Al Smith as Governor of New York

Presidential Campaign

In 1928, Smith became the first Roman Catholic to be nominated for President by a major party. His candidacy was notable for its focus on urban issues and opposition to Prohibition.

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Al Smith on the cover of TIME Magazine, July 1925

Later Life and Legacy

After his defeat in the 1928 presidential election, Smith continued to be active in politics and public life. He was a vocal critic of the New Deal policies of Franklin D. Roosevelt, despite their previous friendship.

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Governor Roosevelt and Al Smith

Smith's legacy includes his contributions to the modernization of New York State and his role in shaping the Democratic Party's policies during the early 20th century.

Related Pages

• Governor of New York
• Democratic Party (United States)
• Prohibition in the United States
• Franklin D. Roosevelt

Gallery

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  Smith with Charles Francis Murphy
• Smith on the cover of Good Citizen, November 1926
  Smith on the cover of Good Citizen, November 1926
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  Al Smith, Bain News Service
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  Babe Ruth with Governor Al Smith
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  Smith with Charles Francis Adams III
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  Gravesite of Al Smith
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  New York Medical College
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  PS 163 Al Smith
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  Alfred E. Smith High School
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  Alfred E. Smith Building at night
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  Sunken Meadow State Park
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  1944 issue of Alfred E. Smith
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  "He's Our Al" sheet music, 1928