Charles Emory Smith facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Smith
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| 39th United States Postmaster General | |
| In office April 21, 1898 – January 8, 1902 |
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| President | William McKinley Theodore Roosevelt |
| Preceded by | James Albert Gary |
| Succeeded by | Henry Clay Payne |
| United States Minister to Russia | |
| In office May 14, 1890 – April 17, 1892 |
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| President | Benjamin Harrison |
| Preceded by | C. Allen Thorndike Rice |
| Succeeded by | Andrew Dickson White |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Charles Emory Smith
February 18, 1842 Mansfield, Connecticut, U.S. |
| Died | January 19, 1908 (aged 65) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Education | Union College (BA) |
| Signature |  |
Charles Emory Smith (born February 18, 1842 – died January 19, 1908) was an important American journalist and political leader. He served in high government positions, including being the United States Postmaster General and an ambassador to Russia.
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Early Life and Education
Charles Emory Smith was born in Mansfield, Connecticut, on February 18, 1842. When he was seven years old, his family moved to Albany, New York. There, he attended public schools and The Albany Academy.
He graduated from Union College in 1861. After college, he worked as a recruiting officer for General John F. Rathbone from 1861 to 1862. He also taught at the Albany Academy between 1862 and 1865.
A Career in Journalism
Charles Emory Smith began his career in journalism as an editor. From 1865 to 1870, he was the editor of the Albany Express newspaper. In 1870, he joined the staff of the Albany Journal. He became the editor-in-chief of this newspaper in 1876 and held that role until 1880.
From 1880 until his death, he was an editor and part-owner of the Philadelphia Press. His work in newspapers helped him become well-known.
Serving His Country
Charles Emory Smith was very active in politics, especially with the Republican Party. He helped shape the party's ideas and plans for the country. He was a delegate to several important Republican meetings.
Ambassador to Russia
From 1890 to 1892, he served as the United States Minister to Russia. During this time, Russia faced a terrible famine. Charles Emory Smith played a key role in helping. He managed the distribution of five large ships filled with food and supplies. These supplies were worth about $750,000 and helped many people suffering from hunger.
Postmaster General
Later, he became the Postmaster General. He served under Presidents William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. His term lasted from April 1898 to January 1902. As Postmaster General, he worked hard to improve mail delivery. He greatly helped to develop the rural free delivery system. This system made it possible for mail to be delivered directly to homes in the countryside.
Charles Emory Smith passed away at his home in Philadelphia on January 19, 1908. He is buried at West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania.
