author
J. T. (James Thompson) McCleary
1853–1924
A Canadian-born educator who became a Minnesota congressman, he moved from school leadership into national public service. He is also remembered as the author of civics textbooks that helped explain government to students and general readers.
1 Audiobook
Studies in Civics
by J. T. (James Thompson) McCleary
About the author
Before entering national politics, he built a career in education. Born in Ingersoll, Ontario, on February 5, 1853, he studied at Ingersoll High School and McGill University, then worked in Wisconsin as a county school superintendent before moving to Minnesota in 1881. There he served as state institute conductor, taught at the normal school in Mankato, and led the Minnesota Educational Association.
He later represented Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican, serving from 1895 to 1903. After his time in Congress, he held the post of Second Assistant Postmaster General, showing how his career stretched from classrooms and educational reform into federal administration.
He also wrote works such as Studies in Civics, reflecting his long interest in public life and citizenship. McCleary died on December 17, 1924, leaving behind a career that joined teaching, writing, and government service.