George Docking facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Docking
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| 35th Governor of Kansas | |
| In office January 14, 1957 – January 9, 1961 |
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| Lieutenant | Joseph W. Henkle Sr. |
| Preceded by | John McCuish |
| Succeeded by | John Anderson Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 23, 1904 Clay Center, Kansas, U.S. |
| Died | January 20, 1964 (aged 59) Kansas City, Kansas, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Mary Virginia Blackwell |
| Children | 2, including Robert |
| Education | University of Kansas |
| Profession | Bond salesman, banker, gas businessman |
George Docking (born February 23, 1904 – died January 20, 1964) was an important American politician and businessman. He served as the 35th governor of Kansas from 1957 to 1961. He was a member of the Democratic Party.
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Early Life and Education
George Docking was born in Clay Center, Kansas. He grew up and went to public schools in Lawrence, Kansas. He later attended the University of Kansas, graduating in 1925. George Docking married Mary Virginia Blackwell, and they had two children together. He was also a member of the Presbyterian church.
Political Career
George Docking became very active in politics. He was elected as the Governor of Kansas in 1956. He won reelection in 1958, serving two terms. This made him the first Democrat in Kansas to be governor for more than one term.
Governor of Kansas
During his time as governor, George Docking often disagreed with the state legislature. The legislature was mostly made up of members from the Republican Party. One famous disagreement was a three-year argument with the Chancellor of the University of Kansas, Franklin David Murphy. This dispute eventually led to Chancellor Murphy leaving his position.
George Docking was known for his strong views. He once said, "I just don't like killing people," showing his opinion on the death penalty. In the 1960 election, he lost his bid for a third term to the Republican candidate, John Anderson, Jr..
National Role
After his time as governor, George Docking continued to serve his country. In 1960, he was a delegate at the Democratic National Convention. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy chose him for an important job. He was appointed as the Director of the Export-Import Bank in Washington, D.C.. This bank helps American businesses sell their products to other countries. He worked in this role until he passed away.
Legacy and Family
George Docking died in 1964 at the age of 59 in Kansas City, Kansas. He passed away from a lung condition called emphysema. He is buried at Highland Park Cemetery in Kansas City.
The Docking family has a strong history in Kansas politics.
- His son, Robert Docking, also served as Governor of Kansas for four terms (1967–1975).
- His grandson, Thomas Docking, served as Lieutenant Governor of Kansas (1983–1987).
The Docking family remains one of the most well-known political families in Kansas.
Beyond politics, George Docking was also a talented person. He was a champion amateur tennis player. He was also a master at playing bridge, a popular card game.
