The Political Philosophy and Congressional Career of John Randolph Tucker, 1823-1897

Abstract

Thc career of John Randolph Tucker was indeed unparalleled by anyone of his era. His contributions have had lasting effects on Washington and Lee University, the state of Virginia and our nation. As a professor at Washington and Lee, Tucker brought national recognition to the law school with changes in curricullum. Tucker's reputation as one of the foremost constitutional lawyers of the period also brought acclaim to the Washington and Lee law school. As a spokesman for the Southern Democratic party, Tucker was successful in bringing about positive c:hange in states' rights issues which benefited the Southern states. He was instrumental in bringing about tariff reform, the eradication of polygamy and retaining the powers of Congress over the treaty-making powers of the president. Tucker's real significance lies in that he was a true spokesman for the people and region he represented and fought succesfully to retain the maximum of powers for state governments over internal affairs. [From concluding section]