Cyrus Vance

Date of Birth: March 27, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: January 12, 2002

Biography

Cyrus Roberts Vance was an American lawyer and statesman who served as the United States Secretary of State under President Jimmy Carter from 1977 to 1980. Known for his diplomatic approach and emphasis on negotiation over military action, Vance played a pivotal role in numerous key international events, including the Camp David Accords and the Panama Canal treaties. Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Vance pursued an education in law, graduating from Yale University and Yale Law School. He began his career in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later transitioned into a legal and political career, serving in various government positions. Before his tenure as Secretary of State, Vance held the role of Deputy Secretary of Defense and was involved in significant Cold War-era policies. Vance’s tenure as Secretary of State was marked by efforts to improve U.S. relations with the Soviet Union, arms control negotiations, and addressing global human rights issues. His dedication to diplomacy was evident in his resignation in 1980, when he opposed the Carter administration’s decision to attempt a military rescue of American hostages in Iran. After leaving public office, Vance continued to contribute to international diplomacy through various roles, including co-chairing the Carnegie Commission on Preventing Deadly Conflict. He remained active in legal and political circles until his death in 2002.

5 Interesting Facts about Cyrus Vance

1. Cyrus Vance served as the United States Secretary of State from 1977 to 1980 under President Jimmy Carter.

2. He played a key role in the Camp David Accords, which were pivotal in the peace process between Egypt and Israel.

3. Vance resigned from his position as Secretary of State in protest against the Carter administration’s decision to attempt a military rescue of hostages in Iran.

4. He was a senior partner at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, a prominent New York law firm, before and after his government service.

5. Vance was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Cyrus Vance

1. “Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.”

2. “Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions.”

3. “The United States must be a force for peace and a beacon for human rights around the world.”

4. “In a crisis, the true measure of a leader is how they handle adversity and guide others through it.”

5. “We must never forget that negotiation and compromise are essential tools of statesmanship.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Cyrus Vance’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Cyrus Vance had five children: Grace Roberts Vance, Amy Vance, Eleanor Vance, Emily Vance, and Cyrus Vance Jr., who served as the Manhattan District Attorney from 2010 to 2021.