Herbert Brownell Jr.

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American lawyer and politician

Herbert Brownell Jr. (February 20, 1904 – May 1, 1996) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 65th United States Attorney General under President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1953 to 1957. Brownell played a significant role in the Eisenhower administration, particularly in the areas of civil rights and law enforcement.

Early Life and Education

Herbert Brownell Jr. was born in Peru, Nebraska, and grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska. He attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. He later attended Yale Law School, where he received his law degree (LLB).

Legal Career

After graduating from Yale Law School, Brownell began his legal career in New York City. He joined the law firm of Lord, Day & Lord, where he specialized in corporate law. His legal expertise and political connections soon led him to become involved in Republican Party politics.

Political Career

Brownell was an active member of the Republican Party. He managed Thomas E. Dewey's presidential campaigns in 1944 and 1948. Although Dewey was unsuccessful in both elections, Brownell's organizational skills and political acumen were widely recognized.

United States Attorney General

In 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower appointed Brownell as the United States Attorney General. During his tenure, Brownell was instrumental in the administration's civil rights initiatives. He played a key role in the desegregation of public schools following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. Brownell also supported the enforcement of civil rights laws and worked to dismantle segregation in the South.

Later Life and Legacy

After resigning as Attorney General in 1957, Brownell returned to private legal practice. He remained active in public affairs and continued to advocate for civil rights and legal reform. Brownell passed away on May 1, 1996, in New York City.

Related Pages

• United States Attorney General
• Dwight D. Eisenhower
• Brown v. Board of Education
• Republican Party (United States)
• Thomas E. Dewey