Benjamin Tillman

Who was Benjamin Tillman?

Benjamin Ryan "Pitchfork Ben" Tillman, Jr., was an American politician who served as the 84th Governor of South Carolina, from 1890 to 1894, and as a United States Senator, from 1895 until his death in office. Tillman's outspoken support for white supremacy and lynch law provoked national controversy. He is also notable for his promotion of legislation to restrict funding of political campaigns. The first federal campaign-finance law, banning corporate expenditures in campaigns, is commonly called the Tillman Act, Senator Tillman having been its lead sponsor.

Tillman was a member of the Democratic Party. Tillman also served on the first Board of Trustees at Clemson University after assisting with its founding.