William Hawkins (politician)

William Hawkins

William Hawkins (born October 20, 1777 in Pleasant Hill , North Carolina , † May 17, 1819 in Sparta , Georgia ) was an American politician and 17th Governor of North Carolina.

Early years and political advancement

William Hawkins attended local schools in his homeland. This was followed by law studies in Philadelphia and North Carolina. After his admission to the bar, he began practicing in Warren County . He was also assistant Indian commissioner at Fort Hawkins, Georgia, and in 1801 acted as mediator in disputes with the Tuscarora Indians. His political career began with his election to the House of Representatives of North Carolina in 1804. He stayed there until 1805. Between 1809 and 1811 he was again on this body, this time even as President of the Chamber ( Speaker ).

North Carolina Governor

In 1811, Hawkins was elected the new governor of North Carolina by the House of Representatives. He was re-elected in the following two years. In doing so, he fully exploited the possibilities of the constitution, which only allowed a maximum of three consecutive terms of office. His tenure ran from December 11, 1811 to November 29, 1814. This time coincided with the War of 1812 and he had to recruit troops as governor for the army. He also promoted industrial development in North Carolina.

After the end of his tenure, he withdrew from politics. He only returned briefly to the House of Representatives once more, in 1817. William Hawkins died in May 1819. He was married to Ann Swepson Boyd. The couple had seven children.

literature

• Robert Sobel, John Raimo (Eds.): Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789–1978. Volume 2, Meckler Books, Westport, Conn. 1978, 4 volumes

Web links

• William Hawkins at the National Governors Association (English)