Joseph C. Wilson

Date of Birth: November 6, 1949

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: September 27, 2019

Biography

Joseph Charles Wilson IV was an American diplomat and public servant, best known for his role in the Iraq War intelligence scandal, commonly known as the “Plame Affair.” Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Wilson began his career in the U.S. Foreign Service in the mid-1970s. He held various diplomatic positions in Africa, including in Niger, Togo, and South Africa. Wilson gained significant attention in 2003 when he publicly challenged the Bush administration’s justification for the Iraq War, particularly the claim that Saddam Hussein sought uranium from Niger. His wife, Valerie Plame, was subsequently outed as a CIA officer, leading to a major political scandal. Wilson’s career was marked by his outspoken nature and commitment to truth in public service. He passed away on September 27, 2019.

5 Interesting Facts about Joseph C. Wilson

1. Joseph Wilson served as the acting ambassador to Iraq during the Gulf War and was the last American diplomat to meet with Saddam Hussein.

2. Wilson received the Department of State’s “Award for Valor” for his efforts in protecting American citizens during the Gulf War.

3. He authored a memoir titled “The Politics of Truth,” detailing his career and the Plame Affair.

4. Wilson was a fierce critic of the Bush administration and actively engaged in public speaking and writing following his retirement from diplomatic service.

5. His op-ed in The New York Times, titled “What I Didn’t Find in Africa,” was a pivotal moment in the Iraq War debate.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joseph C. Wilson

1. “I have little choice but to conclude that some of the intelligence related to Iraq’s nuclear weapons program was twisted to exaggerate the Iraqi threat.”

2. “The act of leaking my wife’s identity was a betrayal of our national security.”

3. “I am proud to have served my country, but I am deeply troubled by the direction it has taken.”

4. “Public service is a noble calling, but it requires courage and integrity.”

5. “We must always question those in power and hold them accountable.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Joseph C. Wilson’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from his diplomatic salary, speaking engagements, and book sales.