Herman E. Talmadge

A Senator from Georgia. Born on a farm near McRae, Telfair County, Ga. , August 9, 1913. Attended the public schools in McRae. Received a law degree from the University of Georgia at Athens in 1936. Admitted to the bar in 1936 and commenced the practice of law in Atlanta, Ga. Volunteered for service in the United States Navy in 1941. Saw extensive action in the Pacific theater, attained rank of lieutenant commander and was discharged in November 1945. Upon the death of his father, Governor-elect Eugene Talmadge, was elected to the governorship by the State legislature in 1947. Served sixty-seven days, then vacated the office due to a decision of the State supreme court. Elected in September 1948 to fill the unexpired term. Reelected in 1950 and served until January 1955. Farmer. Elected as a Democrat to the United States Senate in 1956. Reelected in 1962, 1968 and 1974 and served from January 3, 1957, to January 3, 1981. Unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1980. Denounced by the Senate in 1979 for financial misconduct. Chairman, Committee on Agriculture and Forestry (Ninety-second through Ninety-fifth Congresses), Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ninety-fifth and Ninety-sixth Congresses). Resumed the practice of law. Was a resident of Hampton, Ga. , until his death on March 21, 2002. Buried on family farm near Hampton, Ga.