Hattie Caraway facts for kids

Hattie Ophelia Wyatt Caraway (born February 1, 1878, died December 21, 1950) made history. She was the first woman ever elected to serve a full term in the United States Senate. She represented the state of Arkansas for over thirteen years. Her time in the Senate lasted from December 1931 to January 1945.

Who Was Hattie Caraway?

Hattie Caraway was an important figure in American politics. She broke barriers for women in government. Before becoming a senator, she was a schoolteacher. She lived in Arkansas with her family.

Her Path to the Senate

Hattie Caraway first became a senator by accident. Her husband, Thaddeus Caraway, was a senator. When he passed away in 1931, the governor of Arkansas chose Hattie to take his place. This was a temporary appointment.

However, Hattie decided to run for the position herself. In 1932, she won the election. This made her the first woman to be elected to a full six-year term in the U.S. Senate. This was a very big deal for women in politics.

Her Time in the Senate

Senator Caraway served in the Senate for more than 13 years. She was known for being quiet and hardworking. She focused on issues important to her state, Arkansas. She supported farmers and veterans. She also worked on flood control projects.

She was re-elected in 1938. This showed that people in Arkansas trusted her to represent them. She left the Senate in 1945.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving the Senate, Hattie Caraway continued to serve her country. She worked for the Employees' Compensation Commission. This was a government agency.

Hattie Caraway passed away in 1950. She had a stroke and died in Falls Church, Virginia. Her legacy lives on as a pioneer for women in politics. She showed that women could hold important leadership roles.

Images for kids

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  Hattie Caraway in 1914

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  Grave of Hattie Caraway