Frederick Low completed his early education at Hampden Academy in Maine before relocating to California. He entered the shipping business in San Francisco and later transitioned to banking in Marysville. Low served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and as the 9th Governor of California, during which he established Yosemite National Park and the University of California. He concluded his career as the United States Minister to China, where he reported on significant events such as the Tianjin Massacre.

Frederick Low's political identity is marked by a blend of progressive environmentalism and international diplomacy. He established Yosemite National Park, showcasing an early commitment to environmental conservation. His tenure as United States Minister to China, coupled with his reporting on the Tianjin Massacre, reveals a nuanced approach to foreign affairs, balancing diplomatic roles with a commitment to human rights. Low's legislative initiatives, such as founding the University of California, highlight an ideologically agile strategy that prioritizes long-term regional development.