Ever heard of Frederick C. Hicks? If not, it’s probably because the mainstream narrative doesn’t want you to know about him. Hicks was a U.S. Representative from New York who served from 1915 to 1923. New York, yes, the state that’s now a bastion of progressive policies was once home to this conservative stalwart. In the early 20th century, Hicks embodied the rise of reasoned and principled governance, a novel concept today. He lived through the First World War and the Spanish flu, advocating strongly for the interests of his constituents. Why does he matter today? Because his brand of politics needs a revival.
Politicians nowadays rarely embody the steadfast resolve of Hicks. He wasn't swayed by populist trends or the siren songs of socialism. He was about America's prosperity, real-world solutions, not cosmetic change. If you think our government needs more grit and less showmanship, then Hicks is a historical figure worth revisiting.
Let’s talk about civility, or rather, the lack of it today. Hicks was known for his courteous demeanor. That’s something that seems to have gone extinct in today’s political sphere. Politics isn’t a gladiatorial arena; it should be a place for problem-solving and constructive debate. Hicks exemplified that, even during his toughest negotiations.
Now to his achievements. Hicks was a prominent figure in ensuring national security. In times when war was a looming specter, he supported strengthening the military. Sound familiar? That's because it's a narrative that today's armchair political analysts love to deride, but did you know Hicks was instrumental in drafting legislation that laid the groundwork for future defense policies?
Notably, Hicks wasn't just about defense. He was an early advocate for what we today understand as family values. He wasn't shouting about them from the rooftops, though—he was enacting them. By working on legislation that sought practical solutions to real issues, Hicks strived to uplift the American spirit. He knew that society’s backbone was its families, and he fought tooth and nail to protect them.
Let's consider his economic contributions too. Hicks knew that the nation’s prosperity lies in the ability of its citizens to rise economically. He supported policies that empowered businesses and individuals rather than strangled them with regulations. Favors for cronies? Not in his vocabulary. Instead, he argued for tax structures that were not punitive, but incentivized growth and investment.
And education? Hicks was a staunch supporter. Not of whimsical educational policies that promote division but of those grounded in merit. He valued education that prepared individuals for real-world challenges, rather than political indoctrination. Conservative principles like these are the bedrock upon which productive citizenry is built.
On the foreign policy front, Hicks was cautious yet assertive. He didn’t shy away from difficult international scenarios and was a promoter of American interests abroad. Sound policy comes from strength, not appeasement. His approach was anything but timid, all while understanding the importance of diplomatic engagement.
Despite all these qualities, Frederick C. Hicks isn’t a name that sparks recognition among many Americans today. Why? Because the narrative has been hijacked by those who would rather erase such legacies, to rewrite history in favor of their own agendas. If we’re serious about reviving conservatism in America, we need to reignite stories like Hicks’s. It’s not about dwelling in the past; it’s about learning from it.
Imagine bringing back his brand of principled, effective leadership. Imagine leaders who don’t flip-flop on every issue. Leaders guided by common sense and clarity. Leaders like Hicks who work for the people, and ensure the country’s strength, prosperity, and resolve. America’s future depends on heeding lessons from legends like Frederick C. Hicks.