Nelson Rockefeller

Nelson Rockefeller was an American politician, Financier, and member of the wealthy Rockefeller family. He served as the Vice President of the United States under Gerald Ford from 1974 to 1977 and as the Governor of New York from 1959 to 1973. Rockefeller was a key figure in the Republican Party and played a significant role in shaping the party's Moderate Republican wing, along with Jacob Javits and John Lindsay. He was also a prominent figure in the development of the United Nations and served as a trustee of the University of Chicago.

● Early Life and Education

Nelson Rockefeller was born in Bar Harbor, Maine, to John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. He was the grandson of John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil. Rockefeller attended Lincoln School in New York City and later enrolled in Dartmouth College, where he graduated in 1930. He then attended Columbia Business School and later worked at National City Bank of New York (now Citibank) and Dillon, Read & Co.. Rockefeller's early life was influenced by his family's philanthropic efforts, including the work of the Rockefeller Foundation and the General Education Board.

● Career

Rockefeller began his career in politics in the 1930s, working as a member of the Westchester County Board of Supervisors. He later served as the Coordinator of Inter-American Affairs under President Franklin D. Roosevelt and played a key role in promoting Hemispheric defense and cooperation during World War II. Rockefeller was also a member of the National Security Council and served as the Under Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He was a strong supporter of the United Nations and served as a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly. Rockefeller's career was also influenced by his relationships with other prominent politicians, including Thomas E. Dewey and Richard Nixon.

● Governor of New York

Rockefeller was elected as the Governor of New York in 1958, defeating W. Averell Harriman. During his tenure, he implemented a range of policies, including the creation of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and the development of the New York State Thruway. Rockefeller also played a key role in the construction of the World Trade Center and the development of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. He was a strong supporter of the Civil Rights Movement and worked to promote Racial integration in New York State. Rockefeller's governorship was also marked by his relationships with other prominent politicians, including Robert F. Kennedy and Jacob Javits.

● Vice Presidency

Rockefeller was appointed as Vice President of the United States by Gerald Ford in 1974, following the resignation of Richard Nixon. He was confirmed by the United States Congress and served as Vice President until 1977. During his tenure, Rockefeller played a key role in promoting Détente with the Soviet Union and worked to strengthen relations with China and other countries. He was also a strong supporter of the United States space program and worked to promote Space exploration. Rockefeller's vice presidency was marked by his relationships with other prominent politicians, including Henry Kissinger and George H.W. Bush.

● Personal Life

Rockefeller was married twice, first to Mary Todhunter Clark and then to Happy Rockefeller. He had five children, including Rodman Rockefeller, Ann Rockefeller, Steven Rockefeller, Jay Rockefeller, and Mark Rockefeller. Rockefeller was a prominent figure in New York City society and was known for his love of Modern art and Classical music. He was a trustee of the Museum of Modern Art and served on the board of the New York Philharmonic. Rockefeller's personal life was also influenced by his relationships with other prominent figures, including Pablo Picasso and Leonard Bernstein.

● Death and Legacy

Rockefeller died on January 26, 1980, in New York City. He was remembered as a prominent figure in American politics and a key player in the development of the Moderate Republican wing of the Republican Party. Rockefeller's legacy continues to be felt in New York State and across the United States, with many of his policies and initiatives still in place today. He is remembered as a strong supporter of the United Nations and a champion of International cooperation. Rockefeller's legacy is also commemorated through the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government and the Rockefeller Archive Center. Category:Vice Presidents of the United States