William M. Holt (Wm. Holt)
Summary:
William M. Holt, commonly referred to as Wm. Holt, was a Commissioner for the Indian Claims CommissionTraditional Knowledge:
William M. Holt began his public service career as an insurance lawyer in Nebraska. He was one of the first individuals to be appointed Commissioner for the Indian Claims Commission. His position began in 1947 and he was the longest serving commissioner. Holt had no background in federal indian law and interpreted most cases and the Commissioner's purpose conservatively. In the early years of the Indian Claims Commission William M. Holt agreed to dismiss many Indian claims brought to the commission.