Roy Cohn was a controversial character in American history. He was a lawyer and political fixer with significant influence in the mid-twentieth century. Roy Cohn was born on February 20, 1927, in New York City, to a rich and politically connected Jewish family. His father, Albert Cohn, was a judge in the Bronx. Roy Cohn’s upbringing helped him develop a powerful network from a young age.
Early Life and Education
Roy Cohn graduated from Columbia Law School in 1947, at the age of twenty. He became a lawyer a year later, when he achieved the requisite age. He began his career in the United States Attorney’s Office in Manhattan. He rose to prominence by prosecuting high-profile cases, including espionage trials.
The Rosenberg Case
In 1951, Roy Cohn prosecuted Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, which was one of his most famous trials. The Rosenberg were accused of spying for the Soviet Union and sharing nuclear secrets. They were convicted and executed in 1953. Many detractors later claimed that Cohn played a significant role in their conviction, advocating for heavy sentences.
Role in McCarthyism
Roy Cohn’s reputation soared when he was appointed general counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy in 1953. McCarthy oversaw a series of investigations into alleged communist involvement in the United States government and other institutions. These investigations, known as the Red Scare or McCarthyism, were extremely divisive. Cohn and McCarthy aggressively questioned witnesses, frequently damaging their careers and reputations. Cohn’s sharp skills and willingness to twist the facts made him both feared and despised. However, his activities helped him earn important allies among anti-communist leaders.
Relationship with G. David Sachine
During this period, Cohn had a close friendship with G. David Sachine, a McCarthy committee consultant. Their relationship became the subject of public scrutiny, with speculations claiming it was more than professional. The Army-McCarthy hearings in 1954 marked the start of Cohn’s slide from grace. These hearings looked into allegations that Cohn attempted to use his position to get special treatment for Sachine, who was drafted into the Army. The hearings revealed McCarthy and Cohn’s practices to the public, prompting significant criticism. McCarthy was ultimately censured by the Senate, and Cohn resigned his position.
Career in Private Practice
After leaving McCarthy’s squad, Cohn went back to private practice in New York City. He became regarded as a lawyer for the wealthy and powerful. His clients included celebrities, business magnates, and politicians. Cohn was notorious for his aggressive and perhaps unethical legal techniques. He frequently employed intimidation and media manipulation to win cases. Despite his reputation, he was still much sought after.
Mentor to Donald Trump
Cohn also got into real estate and mentored a young Donald Trump in the 1970s. Cohn advised Trump on legal and business problems, guiding him through lawsuits and controversies. Trump later referred to Cohn as a stern and faithful counselor. Their connection influenced Trump’s approach to business and public relations.
Accusations of Misconduct
Throughout his career, Cohn was accused of various unethical behaviors. He was disbarred in 1986 for professional misconduct, which included fraud and a conflict of interest. By this point, his reputation had plummeted. Cohn’s personal life also garnered notice. He never openly confirmed his homosexuality, but it was widely rumored. Some detractors saw his private life as disingenuous because he presented himself as a staunch conservative in public.
Decline and Death
In the 1980s, Cohn’s health deteriorated. He was diagnosed with AIDS but publicly stated that he had liver cancer. He continued to labor almost until his death on August 2, 1986, at the age of 59. His death signaled the end of a career that had had a considerable impact on American politics and law.
Legacy
Roy Cohn remains a divisive figure. Supporters applaud his brains and legal abilities. Critics point to his aggressive techniques and ethical flaws. His life provides insight into the power battles of twentieth-century America. Despite his weaknesses, Cohn’s narrative continues to interest both historians and the general public.
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