Donald Rumsfeld was a well-known American politician and businessman. He served as the United States Secretary of Defense twice, under Presidents Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. Rumsfeld also held various other government positions, including White House Chief of Staff, U.S. Ambassador to NATO, and U.S. Congressman from Illinois.
Early Life
Donald Rumsfeld was born on July 9, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended Princeton University on a scholarship. After graduating in 1954, Rumsfeld served in the United States Navy as a pilot.
Political Career
Rumsfeld's political career began in 1962 when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois' 13th district. He was re-elected in 1964 and 1966. In 1970, President Richard Nixon appointed Rumsfeld as Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity, and in 1971, he became White House Chief of Staff.
In 1975, President Gerald Ford appointed Rumsfeld as Secretary of Defense. He served in this position until 1977, when President Jimmy Carter took office. Rumsfeld returned to private business but remained involved in politics and government.
In 2001, President George W. Bush appointed Rumsfeld as Secretary of Defense once again. He served in this position during the September 11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. Rumsfeld resigned in 2006 amid criticism of his handling of the war in Iraq.
Business Career
After leaving public office in 1977, Rumsfeld worked in the private sector. He held various executive positions at companies such as General Instrument Corporation and G.D. Searle & Company. In 1997, he became Chairman of the Board at Gilead Sciences, a biotechnology company. Rumsfeld remained involved in business throughout his life.
Legacy
Donald Rumsfeld's legacy is complex. He is remembered for his long and varied career in politics and government, including his service as Secretary of Defense during a critical time in American history. However, his handling of the Iraq War and the use of controversial interrogation techniques have also been heavily criticized.
Rumsfeld passed away on June 29, 2021, at the age of 88. His legacy will continue to be debated and discussed for years to come.