*Party division totals are based on election day results.
Republicans continued to control Congress, but the 1902 elections slightly eroded their House majority. With the retirement of Iowa’s David Henderson, Joseph G. Cannon of Illinois won election as House Speaker. The 58th Congress (1903–1905) enabled the Forest Service to better protect lumber reserves. In 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt announced his “corollary” to the Monroe Doctrine. This policy meant the U.S. would act to prevent European creditor powers from invading Latin American nations at risk of defaulting on their debts.
Learn more about the People of the People's House
To view complete lists of individuals who have served in these leadership and official positions since the 1st Congress, visit the People section