Regal Portrait of Champ Clark, Early 20th Century Leader

This photograph features Champ Clark, a prominent figure in early 20th-century American politics, taken around 1917. Clark, born in 1850 in Kentucky, was notably the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1911 to 1919. His leadership during a transformative period in U.S. history coincided with major events like World War I and significant domestic reforms, including the progressive movement aimed at curbing corporate power and enhancing social welfare.

Clark represented Missouris 5th congressional district and was a key player in the Democratic Party during his tenure. His political career spanned over three decades, during which he championed legislation on issues like banking reforms and womens suffrage. This portrait captures Clark in a moment that reflects his stature in Congress, highlighting his role in shaping policies that impacted the nation during a critical era.

The image is a photographic print, catalogued by the U.S. Copyright Office as J221603 and copyrighted by Bain News Service. It stands as an important visual document, providing insight into the individuals who shaped American governance and illustrating the broader trends and challenges of their time.