An American economist and politician who served as the 12th United States Secretary of Defense, playing a key role in shaping the country's defense policies during the Cold War era. He's also known for being the first Secretary of Energy.
James R. Schlesinger, a stalwart figure in American politics, is best known for his tenure as Secretary of Defense from 1973 to 1975, serving under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. During this period, he played a pivotal role in shaping the country's defense strategy, advocating for the development of sophisticated nuclear weapon systems and pressing for the completion of the A10 and lightweight fighter programs, which would later become the F-16.
Schlesinger was born on February 15, 1929, in New York City to Jewish parents, Rhea Lillian (née Rogen) and Julius Schlesinger. His mother emigrated from Lithuania, then part of the Russian Empire, while his father's family hailed from Austria. Schlesinger converted to Lutheranism in his early twenties. He pursued his education at the prestigious Horace Mann School and Harvard University, earning a B.A. in 1950, M.A. in 1952, and Ph.D. in economics in 1956.
Schlesinger began his teaching career at the University of Virginia, where he taught economics from 1955 to 1963. During this period, he published The Political Economy of National Security in 1960. He later moved to the RAND Corporation, serving as director of strategic studies from 1963 to 1969.
In 1969, Schlesinger joined the Nixon administration as assistant director of the Bureau of the Budget, focusing primarily on defense matters. Two years later, President Nixon appointed him chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), where he implemented significant organizational and management changes to improve the AEC's regulatory performance.
Schlesinger's tenure as Secretary of Defense from 1973 to 1975 was marked by his opposition to amnesty for draft resisters and his advocacy for the development of more sophisticated nuclear weapon systems. He continued to serve the country as the first Secretary of Energy under President Jimmy Carter from 1977 to 1979.
Schlesinger's contributions to American defense and energy policy have had a lasting impact on the country's national security and foreign policy. His support for the A10 and lightweight fighter programs ensured their completion, and his tenure as Secretary of Energy saw the establishment of the Department of Energy. Schlesinger's commitment to public service has left an indelible mark on American politics, solidifying his position as a respected figure in defense and energy policy circles.
"The Department of Defense is not a sacred cow. It is a complex organization, and it can be improved."
James R. Schlesinger
Schlesinger passed away on March 27, 2014, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to public service and contributions to American defense and energy policy. His commitment to his country and its people will be remembered for generations to come.
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