George M. Thomas (American politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Morgan Thomas
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Kentucky's 9th district |
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| In office March 4, 1887 – March 3, 1889 |
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| Preceded by | William H. Wadsworth |
| Succeeded by | Thomas H. Paynter |
| Member of the Kentucky House of Representatives | |
| In office 1859–1863 1872–1873 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | November 23, 1828 Poplar Flat, Lewis County, Kentucky |
| Died | January 7, 1914 (aged 85) Vanceburg, Kentucky |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Republican |
| Signature |  |
George Morgan Thomas (born November 23, 1828 – died January 7, 1914) was an important American politician and lawyer from Kentucky. He served as a U.S. Representative for his home state. He also held many other public offices throughout his long career.
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Early Life and Education
George Morgan Thomas was born in 1828 near Poplar Flat, Kentucky. This area is located in Lewis County, Kentucky. He went to local schools and received a good education for his time.
After finishing school, Thomas worked as a teacher for two years. He also served as a school commissioner from 1850 to 1859. This role meant he helped manage and oversee local schools.
Becoming a Lawyer
Thomas decided to study law. He worked hard to learn about legal rules and practices. In 1851, he passed his exams and was allowed to become a lawyer. He then started his own law practice.
Public Service Career
George Morgan Thomas spent most of his life working in public service. He held many different jobs in the government and legal system.
Local and State Roles
- Prosecuting Attorney: In 1854, Thomas was elected as the prosecuting attorney for Lewis County. He held this job for four years. A prosecuting attorney works for the government to bring legal cases against people accused of crimes.
- State Representative: He became a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives from 1859 to 1863. This meant he helped make laws for the state of Kentucky.
- Commonwealth's Attorney: From 1862 to 1868, he served as the Commonwealth's attorney. This is another type of prosecutor, working for the state in a larger area.
- County Judge: In 1868, he was elected as a county judge. This role involves overseeing legal cases and other county matters.
- Lieutenant Governor Candidate: In 1871, Thomas ran for Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky. He was a member of the Republican Party. However, he did not win the election.
- Return to State House: He was again a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives in 1872 and 1873.
- Circuit Judge: From 1874 to 1880, he was a circuit judge. This meant he presided over more serious court cases in a specific judicial area.
- U.S. District Attorney: He served as a United States district attorney from 1881 to 1885. In this role, he represented the U.S. government in federal court cases.
Serving in Congress
In 1887, George Morgan Thomas was elected to the Fiftieth Congress. He represented Kentucky as a U.S. Representative. He served one term, from March 4, 1887, to March 3, 1889.
Later Career
After his time in Congress, Thomas continued his public service. On May 20, 1897, President William McKinley appointed him as the Solicitor of Internal Revenue. He held this important position until May 31, 1901. The Solicitor of Internal Revenue helps oversee tax laws and collections for the U.S. government.
Death and Legacy
George Morgan Thomas passed away on January 7, 1914, in Vanceburg, Kentucky. He was buried in Woodland Cemetery, which is located on a hill overlooking the city. Thomas is remembered for his many years of dedication to public service and the legal system in Kentucky and the United States.
