Property | Details |
---|---|
Name | Donald Rumsfeld |
Current Age | 89 |
Occupation(s) | Politician, Businessman |
Date of Birth | July 9, 1932 |
Date of Death | June 29, 2021 |
Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
Nationality | American |
Parents | George Donald Rumsfeld, Jeannette Rumsfeld |
Spouse | Joyce Pierson |
Children | 3 |
Net Worth (2024) | $15 million |
Source of Wealth | Politics, Business Ventures |
Ethnicity | Caucasian |
Height | 5’9" |
Notable Works | Secretary of Defense under Presidents Ford and Bush, Author of "Known and Unknown" |
Introduction
Donald Rumsfeld was a prominent American politician and businessman who served as the 13th and 21st United States Secretary of Defense. Born on July 9, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Rumsfeld had a distinguished career in public service, spanning several decades. Known for his sharp intellect and strategic thinking, he played a pivotal role in shaping American foreign and defense policies during his tenure in government.
Early Life and Education
Donald Henry Rumsfeld was raised in a middle-class family in the suburbs of Chicago. His father, George Donald Rumsfeld, was a successful real estate agent, and his mother, Jeannette Rumsfeld, instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of duty to his country. Rumsfeld attended Princeton University on a scholarship, where he excelled academically and was actively involved in campus politics.
Political Career
Rumsfeld’s political career began in the 1960s when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois. He later served as the Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity and as the U.S. Ambassador to NATO. Rumsfeld’s most significant role came when he was appointed as the Secretary of Defense under Presidents Gerald Ford and George W. Bush. During his tenure, he oversaw key military operations, including the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq.
Business Ventures and Later Life
After leaving government service, Rumsfeld ventured into the business world, holding executive positions in various companies and serving on several corporate boards. He also authored a memoir titled "Known and Unknown," offering insights into his time in public office and his views on global affairs. Despite facing criticism for his role in the Iraq War, Rumsfeld remained a respected figure in political and business circles.
Legacy and Net Worth
Donald Rumsfeld passed away on June 29, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of public service and strategic leadership. His net worth in 2024 is estimated to be $15 million, accumulated through his political career, business ventures, and book royalties. Rumsfeld’s contributions to American politics and defense continue to be studied and debated, cementing his place in the annals of U.S. history.
In conclusion, Donald Rumsfeld’s life and career exemplify a blend of public service, business acumen, and intellectual rigor. His impact on American politics and global affairs remains significant, reflecting a complex and multifaceted statesman whose influence endures beyond his passing.