James R. Anderson facts for kids
James Robert Anderson (born June 12, 1864 – died April 7, 1913) was an important lawyer in South Australia. He was special because he became the Attorney General, which is a top legal job, without being a member of Parliament. This was very unusual for his time.
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Early Life and Education
James Anderson was born in Adelaide, South Australia. He was the youngest son of James Anderson, a builder, and Margaret Anderson. His parents had moved to South Australia from Scotland.
James went to several schools, including Richmond Baker's private school and Grote Street Public School. He was a bright student and won a special scholarship that allowed him to attend Prince Alfred College. After that, he studied law at the University of Adelaide.
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1881, James started training to be a lawyer with Sir John Bray. He finished his law degree in 1884 and officially became a lawyer in 1885.
He began his career as a solicitor, which is a type of lawyer. In 1886, he started a law firm with Robert Carr Castle. Later, in 1896, he joined another law firm called Gordon & Bright. He married Annie Louise Gordon, the daughter of one of the firm's partners, John Hannah Gordon.
In 1911, James Anderson was given the special title of King's Counsel (KC). This title is given to very experienced and respected lawyers. At that time, only a few lawyers in South Australia had this honor.
He was highly praised for his work as a prosecutor in a big case in 1902. He helped the court in a case where a large amount of money and valuable items were stolen.
His Role in Government
In 1902, James Anderson tried to become a member of the South Australian House of Assembly, which is like a state parliament. He ran for the area of Port Adelaide but lost by only three votes. This was impressive because Port Adelaide was a strong area for the Labor Party.
Even though he wasn't in Parliament, he was appointed Attorney-General of South Australia in 1905 by the Premier, Richard Butler. This was a big deal and caused some discussion because it was so rare. However, he only held this position for a few months before a new Premier, Thomas Price, took over.
Other Interests and Activities
James Anderson was involved in many different activities outside of his legal work:
- He loved literary societies, which are groups that discuss books and writing. He even won an award for an essay he wrote about "Australian Federation." He was also a leader in the Literary Societies' Union.
- He was on the committee for the South Australian Football League, helping to manage the sport.
- He was also on the committee for the Adelaide Racing Club and even became its chairman for a few years.
- He was a member of the League of Wheelmen, a group for cyclists.
- He was an enthusiastic member of the South Australian Militia, which was a volunteer army group. He reached the rank of captain.
Family Life
James Anderson married Annie Louise Gordon in 1896. They did not have any children.
He passed away in 1913 after being ill for several weeks. His brothers were William Anderson, an architect, and John Anderson.
