Robert R. Hitt, American lawyer and politician, 13th United States Assistant Secretary of State (d. 1906)

Robert Roberts Hitt (January 16, 1834 – September 20, 1906) was a prominent American figure, distinguishing himself as both a diplomat and a long-serving Republican politician representing Illinois. His career spanned significant periods of U.S. history, marked by a brief but notable tenure in the State Department and extensive influence in Congress, particularly on foreign policy matters.

Early Life and Diplomatic Service

Born in Urbana, Ohio, Robert R. Hitt was not only a politician but also a lawyer and a journalist, having worked as a reporter for the Chicago Tribune. His initial foray into public service was in the diplomatic field. Prior to his brief role as Assistant Secretary of State, Hitt served as the Secretary of Legation in Paris, France, from 1874 to 1881, under Ambassador Elihu B. Washburne during the Third French Republic. This extensive experience abroad provided him with valuable insights into international relations and diplomatic protocols.

He briefly served as Assistant Secretary of State in the administration of President James A. Garfield, a high-ranking position within the U.S. Department of State that directly supports the Secretary in managing foreign affairs. However, his tenure was exceptionally short-lived. Following President Garfield's tragic assassination in September 1881, a politically tumultuous event that profoundly affected the nation, Hitt, along with Secretary of State James G. Blaine, resigned from their positions. This resignation was part of a broader cabinet reshuffle as the nation grappled with the aftermath of the president's death and the transition to Chester A. Arthur's presidency.

Distinguished Congressional Career in the U.S. House of Representatives

After his departure from the State Department, Robert R. Hitt returned to Washington, D.C., but this time as an elected representative. In 1882, he successfully ran for a seat in the United States House of Representatives, beginning a distinguished congressional career that would last until his death in 1906. He initially represented Illinois's 13th congressional district, encompassing parts of Northwestern Illinois, before the districts were redrawn. After redistricting, he represented the 9th district from 1895 until his passing.

During his more than two decades in the House, Hitt became a highly respected voice, particularly concerning America's role on the global stage. From 1885 onwards, he assumed the influential role of the senior Republican on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. This position designated him as the leading minority party member on the committee, playing a crucial role in shaping the Republican response to international issues and legislative proposals.

His leadership was further cemented when he served two non-consecutive terms as the committee's chairman: first from 1889 to 1891, and then for a more extended period from 1895 until his passing in 1906. As Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Robert R. Hitt wielded significant influence over U.S. foreign policy. The committee is responsible for overseeing the Department of State, reviewing and considering foreign aid, treaties, and international agreements, and debating critical international issues.

His second term as chairman, from 1895 to 1906, notably coincided with a pivotal era of American expansionism and emergence as a world power. During this period, the United States engaged in the Spanish-American War of 1898, which resulted in the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, and saw the annexation of Hawaii. Hitt's leadership on the Foreign Affairs Committee during these monumental events means he was instrumental in shaping the legislative framework and public debate surrounding America's burgeoning global responsibilities. His extensive diplomatic background proved invaluable in navigating these complex international challenges and laying groundwork for modern U.S. foreign policy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Robert R. Hitt

When was Robert Roberts Hitt born and when did he pass away?

Robert Roberts Hitt was born on January 16, 1834, and he passed away on September 20, 1906.

What was Robert R. Hitt's role in the James A. Garfield administration?

He served briefly as the Assistant Secretary of State in President James A. Garfield's administration. He resigned following Garfield's assassination in 1881, alongside Secretary of State James G. Blaine.

Which part of Illinois did Robert R. Hitt represent in Congress?

He represented Northwestern Illinois in the United States House of Representatives, specifically the 13th congressional district from 1882 to 1895, and then the 9th district from 1895 until his death.

What was Robert R. Hitt's most significant role in the House of Representatives?

His most significant role was as the senior Republican and later chairman of the influential House Committee on Foreign Affairs. He chaired the committee from 1889 to 1891 and again from 1895 until his death in 1906.

What major foreign policy events occurred during Robert R. Hitt's chairmanship of the Foreign Affairs Committee?

His second chairmanship (1895-1906) notably coincided with and influenced significant events such as the Spanish-American War of 1898, the annexation of Hawaii, and the subsequent expansion of U.S. influence in the Pacific and Caribbean, marking a crucial period in American diplomatic history.