Identity:

Robert Sanderson McCormick was a diplomat. Born in Rockmount Virginia, his family owned the Chicago Tribune. He married Katherine Von Etta Medill. She was the daughter of Joseph Medill who became proprietor of the Tribune.

Life:

McCormick was secretary of American Legation in London from 1889-92 which led to his appointment as official representative for the Chicago 1893 Exhibition. His diplomatic career took off in 1901 when President McKinley appointed him as minister to Austria-Hungary and later first American ambassador. McCormick's other postings included stints as ambassador to Russia (1902-05) and to France (1905-07).

Bibliography:

Who Was Who in America, 1897-1942, vol. 1, Chicago, 1963.