George S. Boutwell

George S. Boutwell
George S. Boutwell was an American politician, lawyer, and writer who played a significant role in the 19th century. He served as the 20th Governor of Massachusetts, a U.S. Senator, and the first Commissioner of Internal Revenue. Boutwell was also a key figure in the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson and was a strong advocate for civil rights. Among his notable works are "The Constitution of the United States at the End of the First Century" and "Reminiscences of Sixty Years in Public Affairs."

Author's Books:


Words and terms have, to different minds, various significations; and we often find definitions changing in the progress of events. Bailey says learning is "skill in languages or sciences." To this, Walker adds what he calls "literature," and "skill in anything, good or bad." Dr. Webster enlarges the meaning of the word still more, and says, "Learning is the knowledge of... more...

INTRODUCTION At the request of my daughter and my son and by the advice of my friends, the Honorable J. C. Bancroft Davis and the Honorable William A. Richardson, I am venturing upon the task of giving a sketch of my experiences in life during three fourths of a century. The wisdom of such an undertaking is not outside the realm of debate. A large part of my manhood has been spent in the politics of my... more...

My election to Congress in 1862 was contested by Judge Benjamin F. Thomas, who was then a Republican member from the Norfolk district. The re-districting of the State brought Thomas and Train into the same district. I was nominated by the Republican Convention, and Thomas then became the candidate of the "People's Party," and at the election he was supported by the Democrats. His course in... more...