Henry B. Anthony graduated from Brown University in 1833 and began his career as a broker in a cotton products firm. He later became editor of the Providence Journal, eventually joining the partnership of the publication. Anthony held various leadership roles in the newspaper industry and transitioned into politics, serving as governor of Rhode Island before becoming a Republican Senator. During his tenure in the Senate, he championed government printing reforms, supported the Union during the Civil War, and introduced the "Anthony Rule" to manage debate. Anthony's contributions to the Senate earned him the title "Father of the Senate."

Henry B. Anthony's political identity is marked by a blend of conservative values and forward-thinking government reforms. He advocated for property requirements for voting and restrictions on immigrant political power, yet he introduced significant reforms in government printing and acted as a proto-majority leader in the Senate. His support for law and order coexists with his role in limiting Senate debate through the "Anthony Rule." Anthony's unexpected convergence with opposing factions on environmental regulations reveals a calculated approach to protecting regional industrial interests.