Since the First Congress opened in 1789, more than 11,000 people have served in the U.S. House of Representatives. Most served capably for a few terms and returned to their communities. But some lawmakers have left towering legacies and are remembered for their legislative prowess, path-breaking careers, and bold personalities. These Members of Congress, including powerful Speakers of the House, strong-willed legislators, trailblazing Representatives, and policy specialists, qualify as “Giant...

Congressional Hispanic CaucusThe Congressional Hispanic Caucus followed patterns established by constituency caucuses using an informal group to serve as a clearinghouse for information and as a networking hub. Before the emergence of these caucuses, such groups served social or relatively narrow policy ends. The success of the Congressional Black Caucus in effecting policy change and increasing Black Americans’ legislative input served as a model for other minority groups in Congress.48The c...

On this date, President Richard M. Nixon formally approved P.L. 93–33 (87 Stat. 71), giving the late Roberto Walker Clemente a Congressional Gold Medal. As the right fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Clemente, a native of Puerto Rico, emerged as one of professional baseball’s greatest stars. In his storied 18 seasons with the Pirates, Clemente garnered 3,000 hits, 12 straight Gold Gloves (1961–1972), and the National League’s Most Valuable Player Award in 1966. But he was also celebrated fo...

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