Archibald Cox

Date of Birth: May 17, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: May 29, 2004

Biography

Archibald Cox was a distinguished American public servant, lawyer, and educator, best known for his role as the special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal. Born into a prominent family in Massachusetts, Cox pursued an illustrious academic career, earning his undergraduate degree from Harvard College and later graduating from Harvard Law School. He began his professional journey as a law clerk for Judge Learned Hand and later for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter. Cox’s career was marked by his dedication to public service. He served as the U.S. Solicitor General under President John F. Kennedy, where he argued numerous landmark cases before the Supreme Court. However, his most notable contribution came during the Watergate scandal in the early 1970s. Appointed as special prosecutor by Attorney General Elliot Richardson, Cox rigorously pursued the investigation into the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, which ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. His principled stance during the “Saturday Night Massacre,” when he refused to be fired by Nixon, cemented his legacy as a protector of justice and integrity. After Watergate, Cox returned to academia, teaching at Harvard Law School and later serving as the chair of Common Cause, a nonpartisan grassroots organization dedicated to upholding the core values of American democracy. Cox’s career was a testament to his unwavering commitment to law, justice, and public service.

5 Interesting Facts about Archibald Cox

1. Archibald Cox was a law clerk for both Judge Learned Hand and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter.

2. He served as the U.S. Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965 under President John F. Kennedy.

3. Cox was appointed as the special prosecutor during the Watergate scandal, a role in which he gained national prominence.

4. His dismissal during the “Saturday Night Massacre” in 1973 was a pivotal moment in the Watergate investigation.

5. After his public service career, Cox became the chair of Common Cause, advocating for government transparency and accountability.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Archibald Cox

1. “Whether ours shall continue to be a government of laws and not of men is now for Congress and ultimately the American people.”

2. “The most important thing in public service is the integrity of the individual.”

3. “I think it is important to remember that no one, not even the President of the United States, is above the law.”

4. “The rule of law is the foundation upon which our democracy is built.”

5. “It is essential that the public have confidence in the fairness and integrity of their government.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Archibald Cox’s highest net worth was primarily derived from his salary as a public servant and educator, rather than significant personal wealth. His contributions were more focused on public service than financial gain.