Robert Sweitzer
Robert M. Sweitzer (May 10, 1868 – April 6, 1938) was an American politician. A Democrat, Sweitzer served as Cook County Clerk for 24 years, and briefly served as Cook County Treasurer until his removal from office due to allegations of financial impropriety. Sweitzer was his party's nominee for Mayor of Chicago in 1915 and 1919, losing both consecutive elections to Republican William Hale Thompson. Early life and education Sweitzer was born May 10, 1868, in Chicago. His father was Martin Johann Sweitzer and his mother was Sarah Lamping Sweitzer (). His father, with his parents, emigrated from Germany to Chicago in 1855. His mother was the daughter of a building carpenter from Joliet, Illinois. His parents were married in 1867. He attended St. Patrick's Academy. He received a Master of Arts from Christian Brothers College in St. Louis. Career After completing his education in 1884, he became a tea and dry goods salesman. He continued this career until becoming interested in politics in 1910. Cook County Clerk In 1910, Sweitzer was elected Cook County Clerk. His election is largely credited to the support he received from Democratic boss Roger Charles Sullivan. Sweitzer would hold this position for the next