George H. Williams
George H. Williams was a prominent American politician in the mid-19th century, known for his opposition to the expansion of slavery. Initially a Democrat, he switched to the Republican Party in 1864, the same year he was elected to the U.S. Senate from Oregon. As a member of the Radical Republicans, Williams played a pivotal role in the passage of the Tenure of Office Act in 1867, a significant legislation that contributed to the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson. Although he faced challenges in securing a second term in 1870, he was appointed as attorney general under President Ulysses S. Grant. In 1874, Williams was nominated for the position of chief justice of the Supreme Court, a role he ultimately withdrew from after facing criticism regarding his qualifications. Opponents raised concerns about his legal expertise and his ability to handle complex cases, as well as issues surrounding his personal conduct and that of his wife. Despite his withdrawal, Williams's political career remained notable during a tumultuous period in American history.
Subject Terms
George H. Williams
Nominated by: Ulysses S. Grant
Significance: Nominated for the position of chief justice, Williams withdrew his name from consideration before the Senate could act.
A Democrat who opposed the expansion of slavery, George H. Williams joined the Republican Party in 1864. That same year the Oregon state legislature elected Williams to the U.S. Senate. Aligned with the Radical Republicans, Williams was responsible for the Tenure of Office Act of 1867, the law that led to the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson.
Failing in his 1870 reelection bid, Williams secured the position of attorney general under President Ulysses S. Grant. In December, 1874, Grant nominated Williams for the position of chief justice, left vacant for over a year by the death of Salmon P. Chase. Opponents charged that Williams did not possess the legal skills to serve as chief justice. Some argued that Williams, who hailed from Oregon, would not be able to understand the complexities of commercial cases. Williams was also accused of using public funds to pay personal servants. Finally, his wife, Kate George Williams, alienated much of Washington through her unbridled ambition and reputation as a gossip. Williams weathered the opposition for some five weeks before he requested that his name be withdrawn from consideration.