Thurman Arnold was born on June 2nd, 1891

Thurman Arnold: The Trustbuster of the New Deal Era

Thurman Wesley Arnold was a renowned American lawyer who made his mark in history as the Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Antitrust Division in President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Department of Justice from 1938 to 1943, earning him the reputation as a fierce trustbuster. During his tenure, he led a campaign to break up monopolies and promote fair competition, leaving a lasting impact on the American economy.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 2, 1891, in Laramie, Wyoming, Arnold was the son of Annie Brockway and Constantine Peter Arnold. He began his university studies at Wabash College, transferring to Princeton University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1911. He then went on to earn his Bachelor of Laws from Harvard Law School in 1914.

Career Highlights

After serving in World War I, Arnold returned to Laramie, where he was a member of the Wyoming House of Representatives in 1921 and later served as mayor from 1923 to 1924. He developed a reputation as a maverick lawyer and went on to hold various academic positions, including lecturer at the University of Wyoming, dean of the West Virginia University College of Law, and professor of law at Yale University.

Trustbusting and Antitrust Division

Arnold's most notable career highlight came when he was appointed Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Antitrust Division in 1938. During his tenure, he led a campaign to break up monopolies and promote fair competition, earning him the reputation as a fierce trustbuster. He targeted industries such as oil, steel, and agriculture, and his efforts led to the breakup of several large corporations.

Major Works

Arnold published several influential books, including:

• The Symbols of Government (1935)
• The Folklore of Capitalism (1937)
• The Bottlenecks of Business (1940)

These works reflected his legal realism philosophy, which emphasized the importance of understanding the social and economic context in which laws operate.

Legacy and Impact

Arnold's trustbusting efforts had a significant impact on the American economy, promoting fair competition and reducing the power of large corporations. His legacy continues to influence antitrust policy to this day. He also served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia from 1943 until his retirement in 1969.

Personal Life and Later Years

Arnold died on November 7, 1969, leaving behind a legacy as a champion of fair competition and a fierce defender of the American economy. His personal life was marked by a strong sense of public service and a commitment to promoting the common good.

Throughout his life, Thurman Arnold remained dedicated to promoting fair competition and reducing the power of large corporations. His trustbusting efforts continue to inspire and influence policymakers to this day, cementing his place as one of the most important figures of the New Deal era.