John Butler Smith's foundational background includes a mix of early work experience in various industries and later ownership of multiple businesses. He attended public schools and later managed institutional risk in high-finance before transitioning to the public sector. Smith became a prominent business owner, managing the Contoocook Mills Company and expanding into commercial real estate and banking. He served as a member of the Governor's Council and later as governor, where he proposed programs for preserving state forests and improving roads and highways.

John Butler Smith's political identity is marked by an intriguing blend of business acumen and progressive environmentalism. His tenure as governor saw him propose programs to preserve state forests, a stance that contrasts with typical industrialist rhetoric of the era. Smith's legislative focus on infrastructure improvements, particularly roads and highways, indicates a calculated effort to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. His rhetorical style likely weaves together appeals to both regional economic interests and broader conservation ethics, creating a nuanced political narrative.