Fighting Statesman: Sen. George Norris

by Christine C. Pappas, J.L. Wilkerson

"A Democracy that has no George Norris to point to - no monument of individual conscience in a sea of popular rule - is not worthy to bear the name," John F. Kennedy, Profiles in Courage.

For 40 years, Norris served in the national government, first in the U.S. House of Representatives and then in the Senate. Norris authored and helped to pass some of the 20th century's most far-reaching legislation, including the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Rural Electrification Act (REA) that brought hydroelectric power - and jobs - to rural America. He fought against yellow-dog contracts, lame-duck legislation and poll taxes. Norris also helped create Nebraska's unique unicameral (one house) legislature.

Praise for Great Heartlanders Series
"The inviting formats, easy-to-read texts, and black-and-white photographs and sketches will draw both reluctant readers andreport writers."

-School Library Journal, 3/99

116 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2001

Reviews

[Rhonda Burbach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview of the life of George W. Norris for young readers. I admire his independence as a statesman, not beholden to any party. How refreshing in today’s world!