author
Thomas V. (Thomas Valentine) Cooper
1835–1909
Best known for a hefty, fact-packed guide to American political history, this Pennsylvania legislator brought the world of elections, parties, and public office to general readers. His life blended writing, newspaper work, and long service in state and federal politics.
1 Audiobook
American politics (non-partisan) from the beginning to date : embodying a history of all the political parties, with their views and records on all important questions. Great speeches on all great issues, and tabulated history and chronological events.
by Thomas V. (Thomas Valentine) Cooper, Hector T. (Hector Tyndale) Fenton
About the author
Born in 1835, Thomas V. Cooper was an American politician, newspaper owner, and author from Pennsylvania. He served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and later in the Pennsylvania State Senate, building a public career that stretched across the late 19th century.
Alongside politics, he was also active in publishing and is remembered in the book world for American Politics (Non-Partisan) from the Beginning to Date, a large reference work created with Hector T. Fenton. The book aimed to give readers a broad, accessible record of U.S. political parties, issues, speeches, and laws.
Cooper also held federal appointments, including service connected with the Port of Philadelphia, and he died in 1909. His career stands out for the way it joined public service with a strong interest in documenting American political life for everyday readers.