George Wilbur Peck

George Wilbur Peck was an American writer and politician from Wisconsin. He was born in Henderson, New York, on September 28, 1840. He moved to Wisconsin in 1854 and settled in Ripon. He was educated at Ripon College and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Peck began his career as a journalist, working for newspapers in Ripon and Milwaukee. He also wrote several novels, including The Cruise of the Jolly Roger (1866) and The Gold Hunters (1869).

Peck entered politics in 1869, when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly. He served in the Assembly for two terms, and then served in the Wisconsin State Senate from 1877 to 1881.

In 1885, Peck was elected governor of Wisconsin. He served as governor for two terms, and was known for his progressive policies. He supported public education, women's suffrage, and the regulation of railroads.

After leaving office, Peck returned to writing. He wrote several more novels, as well as a biography of Abraham Lincoln. He died in Milwaukee on April 16, 1916.

Peck's Principles

Peck was a strong believer in the principles of democracy and equality. He supported public education and women's suffrage, and he was a critic of monopolies and special interests. He believed that the government should play a role in regulating the economy and protecting the rights of its citizens.

Peck's Notable Works

Peck's most famous work is The Cruise of the Jolly Roger, a novel about a group of pirates in the Caribbean Sea. The novel was a bestseller when it was first published, and it has been adapted into several films.

Peck also wrote The Gold Hunters, a novel about the California Gold Rush. The novel was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the story of the Gold Rush.

Peck also wrote The Wisconsin Idea, a book about the progressive movement in Wisconsin. The book was influential in shaping the public policy of Wisconsin, and it is still cited by scholars today.

Peck's Philosophy

Peck was a philosopher of democracy. He believed that democracy was the best form of government because it allowed the people to rule themselves. He also believed that democracy was essential for the protection of individual rights.

Peck's philosophy was influenced by the writings of Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. He believed that the government should be limited in its power, and that the people should have the right to free speech and assembly.

Peck's Death and Legacy

Peck died in Milwaukee on April 16, 1916. He was 75 years old. He is remembered as a progressive governor and a leading philosopher of democracy.

George Wilbur Peck was a significant figure in American history. He was a progressive governor, a leading philosopher of democracy, and a lifelong advocate for labor unions, public education, and individual opportunity. His legacy continues to inspire people today.