Charles M. Mathias Jr. Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Charles McCurdy "Mac" Mathias Jr., born July 24, 1922, in Frederick, Maryland, was an influential American politician known for his moderate Republican views during a time of increasing partisanship in American politics. Throughout his career, he championed bipartisanship, civil rights, and environmental protection, earning respect from both sides of the aisle.

After serving in the Navy during World War II, Mathias attended the University of Maryland and Yale Law School. He began his political career in the Maryland House of Delegates in 1959, followed by the U.S. House of Representatives from 1961 to 1969. In 1968, Mathias was elected to the U.S. Senate, where he served for three terms until 1987. During his tenure, he was a prominent voice in civil rights legislation, playing a key role in the extension of the Voting Rights Act in 1982. Known for his environmental advocacy, Mathias co-authored the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to protect the country's coastal resources.

Mathias was known for his willingness to diverge from party lines. He was one of the first Republicans to call for President Nixon's resignation during the Watergate scandal, demonstrating his commitment to accountability and integrity in public service.

After retiring from the Senate, Mathias practiced law and served as a senior adviser for the law firm Jones Day in Washington, D.C. He also remained active in environmental causes, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.