Archibald Cox

Archibald Cox was a renowned American lawyer, law professor, and civil servant, best known for his role as the first special prosecutor in the Watergate scandal. Born on May 17, 1912, in Plainfield, New Jersey, Cox graduated from Harvard University in 1934 and later earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1937. He began his academic career as a law professor at Harvard Law School, where he taught from 1945 to 1961 and again from 1965 to 1984.

Early Life and Career

Cox’s early life and career were marked by a strong commitment to public service and academia. After serving in the United States Navy during World War II, he returned to Harvard Law School as a professor, where he became known for his expertise in labor law and constitutional law. In 1961, he was appointed as the Solicitor General of the United States by President John F. Kennedy, a position he held until 1965. During his tenure as Solicitor General, Cox argued 20 cases before the Supreme Court, winning 15 of them.

Special Prosecutor in the Watergate Scandal

In 1973, Cox was appointed as the first special prosecutor in the Watergate scandal by Attorney General Elliot Richardson. As special prosecutor, Cox led the investigation into the scandal, which involved the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and allegations of wrongdoing by the Nixon administration. Cox’s appointment was seen as a move to ensure the independence and integrity of the investigation. He assembled a team of lawyers and investigators, including future Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and began to build a case against the Nixon administration.

Cox's tenure as special prosecutor was marked by controversy and tension with the Nixon administration. In October 1973, Cox issued a subpoena to President Nixon, demanding that he turn over tapes of conversations recorded in the Oval Office. Nixon refused, citing executive privilege, and the case ultimately went to the Supreme Court. On July 24, 1974, the Supreme Court ruled in United States v. Nixon that the president must turn over the tapes. However, before the tapes could be released, Nixon ordered Attorney General Richardson to fire Cox, which Richardson refused to do. Richardson and Deputy Attorney General William Ruckelshaus resigned in protest, and Solicitor General Robert Bork eventually carried out the order to fire Cox.

Cox's legacy extends beyond his role in the Watergate scandal. He was a respected scholar and teacher, known for his expertise in labor law and constitutional law. He authored several books on these topics, including Law and the National Labor Policy and The Role of the Supreme Court in American Government. Cox also served as a trustee of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and was a fellow of the American Philosophical Society.

Later Life and Legacy

After his dismissal as special prosecutor, Cox returned to Harvard Law School, where he continued to teach and write. He remained an active voice in public life, commenting on issues related to law, politics, and public service. Cox passed away on May 29, 2004, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy as a champion of the rule of law and a defender of the Constitution.

Cox's impact on American law and public service is still felt today. His commitment to independence, integrity, and accountability has inspired generations of lawyers, judges, and public servants. As a scholar, teacher, and civil servant, Archibald Cox remains an important figure in American history, and his legacy continues to shape our understanding of the law and its role in society.