Cecil Rhodes King was an American businessman and Democratic politician who dedicated over two decades of his life to public service. Born on January 13, 1898, King established himself in the business sector before embarking on a prominent career in federal politics, representing the state of California during a transformative era in United States history.
King's political career is defined by his long tenure in the United States House of Representatives. He served as the very first member of Congress from California's 17th congressional district, holding the seat for fourteen consecutive terms. His service in the House began in August 1942, following a special election on August 25 of that year. This election was held to fill the vacancy created by the death of Representative Lee E. Geyer, who had passed away in Washington, D.C., in October 1941. King had previously served out the remainder of Geyer's term before securing his own mandate.
Throughout his fourteen terms, King remained a consistent legislative figure for his California constituency. His service in the House of Representatives concluded in January 1969, ending a legislative career that spanned from the Second World War through the late 1960s. King passed away on March 17, 1974, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated congressional service.
