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Robert Adams Jr.
Robert Adams Jr.jpg
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Pennsylvania's 2nd district
In office
December 19, 1893 – June 1, 1906
Preceded by Charles O'Neill
Succeeded by John Reyburn
United States Minister to Brazil
In office
July 20, 1889 – March 1, 1890
President Benjamin Harrison
Preceded by Thomas Jarvis
Succeeded by Edwin Conger
Member of the Pennsylvania Senate
from the 6th district
In office
January 2, 1883 – June 12, 1885
Preceded by A. Wilson Norris
Succeeded by Boies Penrose
Personal details
Born (1849-02-26)February 26, 1849
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
Died June 1, 1906(1906-06-01) (aged 57)
Washington, D.C., US
Resting place Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Political party Republican
Alma mater University of Pennsylvania

Robert Adams Jr. (born February 26, 1849 – died June 1, 1906) was an important American politician and diplomat from Pennsylvania. He was a member of the Republican Party. He served in the United States House of Representatives from 1893 to 1906, representing Pennsylvania's 2nd district.

Before that, he was the United States Minister to Brazil from 1889 to 1890. He also served in the Pennsylvania State Senate from 1883 to 1885.

Early Life and School

Robert Adams Jr. was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His parents were Robert and Matilda Maybin Hart Adams.

In 1869, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania. He was also a member of a group called St. Anthony Hall. After college, he studied law. He was allowed to practice law in 1872, but he never actually did.

Robert Adams Jr.'s Career

From 1871 to 1875, Adams worked with the United States Geological Survey. He helped explore Yellowstone National Park.

He was also part of the National Guard of Pennsylvania from 1881 to 1895. He held ranks like judge-advocate and major. From 1883 to 1887, he was a member of the Pennsylvania State Senate. In 1885, he worked for Governor Beaver of Pennsylvania as an aide-de-camp, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel.

A Historical Duel

On April 10, 1880, Adams was involved in a duel with Dr. James William White. Both men were part of the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry. Dr. White wanted to wear his military uniform while seeing patients, which Adams disagreed with.

They decided to settle their disagreement with a duel in Maryland. Both men fired their weapons from 15 paces away. Luckily, neither person was hurt. Years later, Adams asked White if he had fired into the air. White said yes. Adams then said, "I didn't. I fired at you."

Serving as a Diplomat

On April 1, 1889, Robert Adams Jr. was chosen to be the United States Minister to Brazil. He served in this important role until June 1, 1890, when he resigned.

Time in Congress

After returning from Brazil, Adams was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He filled a spot that became open when Charles O'Neill passed away. He started serving on December 19, 1893.

He represented the 2nd Pennsylvania district. During his time in Congress, he was involved in important decisions. He helped with resolutions about Cuba and the declaration of war against Spain.

Later Years and Legacy

Robert Adams Jr. continued to be re-elected to Congress. He served in the 56th, 57th, and 58th Congresses. He was a member of various committees. He also wrote for magazines and gave speeches.

Robert Adams Jr. Gravestone
Robert Adams Jr. Gravestone in Laurel Hill Cemetery

Adams passed away in Washington, D.C. on June 1, 1906. He is buried at the Laurel Hill Cemetery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Groups Robert Adams Jr. Joined

He was a member of several historical and patriotic societies:

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