Charles Curtis, a member of the Kaw Nation, was the first Native American to serve in the United States Senate, beginning his term on January 23, 1907. His political journey and achievements are powerful symbols of perseverance and representation in American politics.

Born in Kansas in 1860, Curtis possessed a mixed heritage of Kaw, Osage, and Potawatomi ancestry. He was raised partly on a Kaw reservation, which fostered a deep connection to his roots while he navigated the broader challenges of 19th-century America. Before entering politics, Curtis devoted himself to advocating for Native American rights as a lawyer. He skillfully navigated complex legal systems to ensure justice for his community.

Political Achievements

• House of Representatives: Charles Curtis first entered Congress in 1893 as a representative for Kansas and served multiple terms. He built a reputation as a skilled legislator and coalition-builder many years before his role in the Senate. 
• Senate Service: Curtis took office as a U.S. Senator from Kansas on January 23, 1907. He served until 1913 and returned for another term from 1915 to 1929.

Curtis championed infrastructure development, Native American policies, and agricultural interests. Despite facing challenges during his tenure, he worked to balance his responsibilities to his constituents and his advocacy for Native American communities.

Legacy

• First Native American Vice President: Curtis achieved another milestone after his Senate career: In 1929, he became the first and only Native American to hold vice president’s office under Herbert Hoover.
• A Moment of Progress: Curtis’s ascent to the Senate marked a significant moment for Native American visibility in U.S. politics during an era when Indigenous voices were often marginalized.
• Dual Identity: Curtis’s career highlighted the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities in public life while representing Indigenous peoples and being a mainstream political figure.

Curtis’s presence in the Senate shattered barriers for Native Americans in government, inspiring future generations to pursue leadership roles. Charles Curtis’s swearing-in as a U.S. Senator on January 23, 1907, was more than a personal achievement—it was a milestone for Native American representation in government. His journey clearly demonstrates resilience and the ongoing struggle for equity and inclusion in American politics.