File photo by Stephen Crowley of The New York Times / Bob Dole, then-Republican presidential candidate, prepares to give his concession speech after losing to Bill Clinton, in Washington, Nov. 5, 1996. Dole died on Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021. He was 98.Robert J. Dole – war hero, senator, presidential candidate, Kansan – died Sunday at the age of 98.
We didn’t always agree with Bob Dole’s politics. He usually didn’t agree with us. But there can be no doubt the Russell native will be remembered as a titan of 20th-century American government, and as one of the most important political figures in Kansas history.
At the same time, Dole’s legacy extends beyond his many accomplishments in Washington, or his resume. He remains important in our time. His tireless effort to find common ground with political opponents is more critical today than it was when he left elected office in the 1990s.
Dole was not born to wealth – his family ran a small cream and egg business in Russell, Kansas, where he went to high school. After graduation, he enrolled at the University of Kansas.
World War II intervened, however, as it did for millions of Americans. Dole joined the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army, where he served as a second lieutenant.