Senator Dillingham: A Glimpse into Early 20th-Century Politi

This photograph captures Senator William Dillingham, a key political figure in early 20th-century America. Dillingham served as a Republican senator from Vermont from 1900 to 1923. He played a significant role in national debates surrounding immigration and is particularly known for his work on the Dillingham Commission, which studied the impacts of immigration on American society. This commissions findings influenced immigration policy and the public perception of immigrants during a time of significant change in the United States.

The glass negative, part of the Bain News Service collection, brings Dillinghams image to life, showcasing the formal attire typical of politicians of the era. Through his Senate tenure, he was involved in various legislative issues, including labor rights and fiscal reforms. This photograph not only documents Dillinghams presence in government but also serves as a visual record of the political atmosphere of his time, highlighting a pivotal period in American history.