A prominent figure in New Orleans politics, he was a businessman and jurist who gained notoriety for being the only person prosecuted in connection with the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
As a stalwart of South Florida politics, Clay Shaw left an indelible mark on the region, serving as mayor of Fort Lauderdale and representing the area in the United States House of Representatives for over two decades. From 1981 to 2007, Shaw was a respected voice in Washington, advocating for the interests of his constituents and playing a key role in shaping the region's development.
Born on April 19, 1939, in Miami, Florida, Shaw graduated from Miami Edison Senior High School in 1957. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in business from Stetson University in 1961, where he joined the Sigma Nu fraternity. Shaw furthered his education by earning a master's degree in accounting from the University of Alabama in 1963 and a law degree from Stetson University School of Law in 1966.
After completing his education, Shaw practiced law and worked as a certified public accountant. In 1968, he became the assistant city attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and soon rose to become the chief city prosecutor from 1968 to 1969 and an associate municipal judge from 1969 to 1971.
Shaw's political career took off in 1971 when he was elected as a city commissioner, a position he held until 1973. He then served as vice mayor from 1973 to 1975 before becoming the mayor of Fort Lauderdale from 1975 to 1981. During his tenure as mayor, Shaw served on the advisory board and executive committee of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and was named special U.S. ambassador to Papua New Guinea by President Gerald Ford.
In 1980, Shaw was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served for 26 years, becoming one of the most senior members of the House. Throughout his congressional career, Shaw was a strong advocate for South Florida's interests, focusing on issues such as transportation, education, and healthcare.
Throughout his distinguished career, Shaw received numerous awards and honors, including the Legion of Honor from the Government of France, the Order of the Rising Sun from the Government of Japan, and the Key to the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Shaw married the former Emilie Costar on August 22, 1960, and they had two children together. Despite his busy political career, Shaw was a devoted family man and was known for his strong sense of community and commitment to public service.
Clay Shaw's legacy is one of dedication, hard work, and a deep commitment to the people of South Florida. From his early days as a lawyer and accountant to his rise as a prominent politician, Shaw remained true to his values and principles, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and constituents alike.
Though he may have left office in 2007, Shaw's impact on South Florida's politics and development continues to be felt, inspiring future generations of leaders to follow in his footsteps and strive for excellence in public service.
Born in 1921
A crusading New Orleans district attorney who investigated the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, famously clashing with the Warren Commission's findings.
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The 35th President of the United States was a charismatic leader who navigated the country through the Cuban Missile Crisis and advocated for civil rights, leaving a lasting legacy in American politics.
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The assassin who fatally shot President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, sparking a national tragedy and conspiracy theories. Known for his infamous act that changed American history.
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