Robert Adams Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Adams Jr.
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Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania's 2nd district |
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In office December 19, 1893 – June 1, 1906 |
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Preceded by | Charles O'Neill |
Succeeded by | John Reyburn |
United States Minister to Brazil | |
In office July 20, 1889 – March 1, 1890 |
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President | Benjamin Harrison |
Preceded by | Thomas Jarvis |
Succeeded by | Edwin Conger |
Member of the Pennsylvania Senate from the 6th district |
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In office January 2, 1883 – June 12, 1885 |
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Preceded by | A. Wilson Norris |
Succeeded by | Boies Penrose |
Personal details | |
Born | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US |
February 26, 1849
Died | June 1, 1906 Washington, D.C., US |
(aged 57)
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.
Contents
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.

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:
- Historical Society of Pennsylvania
- Society of the Cincinnati
- Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the Revolution
- Society of the War of 1812
- Society of Colonial Wars