James M. Hanks

Biography

James M. Hanks (1833-1909) represented Arkansas in the U.S. House of Representatives during the early 1870s, at a time when the state worked to rebuild its institutions. He was committed to ensuring that Arkansans had a voice in shaping the policies that would determine their future.

Upon leaving Washington, he returned to his law practice, where he remained a patient counselor and a tireless advocate for fairness in the courts. Hanks was especially proud of the younger lawyers he encouraged to enter public service.