Description: State of Illinois Executive Dept. Henry Horner Governor Illinois Certificate for Notary Public Hand-signed in pen by Governor Horner Sept. 14, 1940 size: 11" x 14" Henry Horner (1878–1940) was the 28th Governor of Illinois, serving from 1933 until his death in 1940. He was the first Jewish governor of Illinois and a member of the Democratic Party. Horner is best known for his efforts to address the Great Depression, his support for New Deal policies, and his reformist approach to state government.Early Life and Career:Born: November 30, 1878, in Chicago, Illinois, to a well-established Jewish family.Horner was trained in law and became a probate court judge in Cook County, serving from 1915 to 1932. During his time on the bench, he gained a reputation as a reformer, especially in the area of probate court corruption, where he worked to protect the assets of orphans and the elderly.Governorship (1933–1940): Horner was elected Governor of Illinois in 1932, during the height of the Great Depression, defeating Republican incumbent Louis L. Emmerson.Key Achievements and Challenges: Great Depression and New Deal:Horner’s administration was dominated by efforts to address the economic crisis caused by the Great Depression.A staunch supporter of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, Horner worked to implement federal relief programs in Illinois. He helped bring substantial federal funding to the state for infrastructure projects, job creation, and social welfare programs.Horner used public works projects to combat unemployment, focusing on infrastructure improvements, such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. State Finances and the Sales Tax:To address Illinois’ financial difficulties during the Depression, Horner advocated for a state sales tax, which was highly controversial at the time. In 1933, Illinois passed its first state sales tax under his leadership. The tax helped stabilize the state’s finances, although it faced significant opposition from anti-tax factions and political rivals. Political Reforms:Horner was a reform-minded politician who sought to root out corruption in Illinois state government. His efforts to clean up the state’s political machine led to tensions with powerful political bosses, particularly the Chicago Democratic machine led by Patrick Nash and Edward J. Kelly.Despite being a Democrat, Horner distanced himself from the machine’s patronage system and worked to maintain his independence as governor, which won him respect among reformers but created challenges within his own party. Second Term and War Preparations:Horner was re-elected in 1936, defeating Republican challenger C. Wayland Brooks.His second term focused on continuing recovery from the Depression, as well as preparing Illinois for the potential of U.S. involvement in World War II. He supported state measures to enhance civil defense and military readiness as global tensions increased. Health Decline:During his second term, Horner’s health began to deteriorate due to Parkinson's disease. Despite his illness, he remained committed to serving as governor until his death in 1940.Death and Legacy:Died: October 6, 1940, while still in office, making him one of the few Illinois governors to die during their term.Horner was buried in Mount Mayriv Cemetery in Chicago.Legacy:Henry Horner is remembered as a compassionate and progressive governor who worked tirelessly to help Illinois recover from the Great Depression. His support of Roosevelt's New Deal programs brought much-needed relief to the state, and his reformist approach to state government set him apart from many of his contemporaries.He is also remembered for his independence from the Chicago political machine, a rarity for Illinois politicians at the time.The Henry Horner Homes, a public housing project in Chicago, and Horner Park, a large park in Chicago, are named in his honor. Horner’s legacy as a reformist leader and advocate for the people of Illinois during one of the state's most challenging periods remains significant in the state's history.4o
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Industry: Politics
Signed by: Governor Henry Horner
Signed: Yes
Autograph Authentication: Not Authenticated