Date of Birth: July 20, 1920
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: December 31, 1999
Biography
Elliot Lee Richardson was a distinguished American lawyer and politician, known for his integrity and service in various high-profile government positions. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Richardson was a graduate of Harvard University and Harvard Law School. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Richardson’s career in public service began in earnest when he served as Assistant Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He later held numerous key positions including U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts, Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, and Attorney General of Massachusetts. During the Nixon administration, Richardson’s reputation for integrity was put to the test during the Watergate scandal. As U.S. Attorney General, he was instructed to fire special prosecutor Archibald Cox during the “Saturday Night Massacre” but refused, choosing instead to resign. This act of defiance earned him widespread respect and highlighted his commitment to the rule of law. After his resignation, Richardson continued to serve in various capacities, including as Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Secretary of Commerce. His legal acumen and dedication to public service remained evident throughout his career.
5 Interesting Facts about Elliot Richardson
1. Elliot Richardson is one of only two individuals in U.S. history to have held four Cabinet positions: Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, and Secretary of Commerce.
2. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998, a year before his death.
3. Richardson was a decorated World War II veteran, having received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
4. He was a key figure in the Watergate scandal, resigning rather than obeying President Nixon’s order to fire special prosecutor Archibald Cox.
5. Richardson authored several books, including “Reflections of a Radical Moderate,” which detailed his views on politics and governance.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Elliot Richardson
1. “The central dilemma in journalism is that you don’t know what you don’t know.”
2. “The greatest honor history can bestow is the title of peacemaker.”
3. “Public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation.”
4. “Integrity is not a conditional word. It doesn’t blow in the wind or change with the weather. It is your inner image of yourself.”
5. “When it comes to the law, you cannot compromise on principles. You must stand firm for what is right.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Elliot Richardson’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
Elliot Richardson had two children: Henry S. Richardson, a professor of philosophy, and Nancy T. Richardson, a lawyer.
Relevant Links
1. [Elliot Richardson Biography – Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Elliot-Richardson
4. [Watergate Scandal – History Channel](https://www.history.com/topics/1970s/watergate
