Nelson Rockefeller

Date of Birth: July 8, 1908

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: January 26, 1979

Biography

Nelson Aldrich Rockefeller was an American businessman, philanthropist, public servant, and politician, serving as the 41st Vice President of the United States from 1974 to 1977 under President Gerald Ford. Born into the prominent Rockefeller family, he was the son of John D. Rockefeller Jr. and the grandson of John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil. Nelson Rockefeller played significant roles in various fields, including business, government, and the arts. Before his tenure as Vice President, Rockefeller was the 49th Governor of New York, serving from 1959 to 1973. He was known for his progressive policies, including extensive state investment in infrastructure, education, and the arts. He also served in various capacities in the federal government, such as the Assistant Secretary of State for American Republic Affairs and the Under Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Rockefeller’s influence extended beyond politics; he was a noted art collector and philanthropist, contributing significantly to institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Despite his many accomplishments, his career was not without controversy, particularly concerning his stance on drug laws and his handling of the Attica Prison riot in 1971.

5 Interesting Facts about Nelson Rockefeller

1. Nelson Rockefeller was instrumental in the founding of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

2. He was known for his “Rockefeller Republican” stance, supporting moderate to liberal policies within the Republican Party.

3. Rockefeller commissioned the construction of the Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York, a massive complex of government buildings and cultural institutions.

4. He was a strong advocate for public education, significantly increasing New York State’s investment in higher education during his tenure as governor.

5. Rockefeller unsuccessfully sought the Republican presidential nomination three times, in 1960, 1964, and 1968.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Nelson Rockefeller

1. “The secret to success is to own nothing, but control everything.”

2. “There are three periods in life: youth, middle age, and ‘how well you look.’”

3. “Politics is the art of the possible; creativity is the art of the impossible.”

4. “Never forget that the most powerful force on earth is love.”

5. “The future will be determined by the well-being of our children.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Nelson Rockefeller’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 billion at the peak of his career.

Children

Nelson Rockefeller had five children with his first wife, Mary Todhunter Clark: 1. Rodman Rockefeller (1932–2000) 2. Ann Rockefeller Roberts (b. 1934) 3. Steven Clark Rockefeller (b. 1936) 4. Michael Clark Rockefeller (1938–1961, disappeared in New Guinea and presumed dead) 5. Mary Rockefeller (b. 1945)