Robert Lansing was an American lawyer and diplomat who served as the 42nd United States Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson from 1915 to 1920. As Counselor to the State Department and then as Secretary of State, he was a leading advocate for American involvement in World War I. Born: October 17, 1864 Died: October 30, 1928 In office: June 9, 1915 – February 13, 1920 Wiki link