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Newton D. BakerAmerican Democratic politician
Date of Birth: 03.12.1871
Country:  USA |
Content:
Newton Diehl Baker, Jr.
Early Life and EducationNewton Diehl Baker, Jr. was born on December 3, 1871, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. In 1892, he graduated from Johns Hopkins University. He pursued a legal education at Washington and Lee University, graduating in 1894.
Political Career in Cleveland
After working as an assistant to Postmaster General William L. Wilson, Baker moved to Cleveland and became involved in local politics. He served as the city's solicitor from 1901 to 1909 and was elected mayor in 1911. As mayor, Baker prioritized transit reforms and urban beautification. He was also a dedicated trustee of Cleveland College, which later became part of Case Western Reserve University.
Secretary of War
In 1916, Baker co-founded the law firm Baker Hostetler. Amidst the US debate over entering World War I, President Woodrow Wilson appointed Baker as Secretary of War due to his acceptability to politicians on both sides of the issue. As Secretary of War, Baker oversaw the American military intervention in the war from 1917-1918, including the establishment of a national military draft.
Later Life and Legacy
After stepping down as Secretary of War in 1921, Baker returned to his legal practice and never sought public office again. He passed away on Christmas Day in 1937 in Shaker Heights, a suburb of Cleveland, and was interred at Lake View Cemetery. In 1957, Case Western Reserve University erected the Newton D. Baker Building, which housed classrooms and administrative offices. It was demolished in November 2004.
Newton D. Baker School in West Park, Cleveland; dormitories at Ohio State University and Washington and Lee University; and the law firm Baker Hostetler are all named in his honor.
