| Summary |
This thesis examines the political development and war-time leadership of North Carolina Congressman Claude Kitchin whose agrarian roots instilled a life-long desire to progressively restructure the American tax system. In the process of a political career spanning twenty-three years (1900-1923), Kitchin capitalized on economic issues to become Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. His appointment to Democratic majority leader during the turbulent era of World War I completed his ascension to power and solidified his ability to control revenue legislation. Though he opposed American entry, Kitchin used the war to institute his progressive revenue agenda. The thesis explores the agrarian history of the Kitchin family and Halifax County, North Carolina. Particular attention is paid to Claude's father, William Hodge Kitchin, who served as the state's second district representative in the Forty-sixth Congress. After losing reelection to a black-Republican fusion ticket, William became an outspoken member of the Farmer's Alliance and Populist party. This heavily influenced Claude, who emerged as a Democratic leader in North Carolina at the close of the nineteenth century. Claude carried his agrarian philosophies with him when he began his congressional career in 1900. His adherence to Democratic principle during congressional debate over the Payne-Aldrich Tariff in 1910 brought him to the forefront of his party. Democrats elected Kitchin majority leader in 1915, granting him enormous influence in shaping revenue spending bills. As majority leader, Kitchin opposed President Woodrow Wilson's preparedness program and voted against the war resolution he presented to Congress. Both ultimately came to fruition. The conclusion is obvious. Despite his opposition, they provided the vehicle through which Kitchin achieved progressive tax reform. |
