The Life and Times of James Baker III: A Legacy of Service and Diplomacy

Early Life, Education, and Career

James Addison Baker III was born on April 28, 1930, in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Princeton University in 1952 and from the University of Texas School of Law in 1957. After practicing law in Houston, Baker entered the political arena in the 1970s.

The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A. Baker III

by Peter Baker

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Baker's political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the Texas Senate. He served as Senate Majority Leader from 1973 to 1974. In 1975, Baker was appointed Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere by President Gerald Ford.

White House Chief of Staff

In 1981, President Ronald Reagan appointed Baker as White House Chief of Staff. Baker served in this role until 1985. As Chief of Staff, Baker was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the White House and advising the President on a wide range of policy issues.

Baker played a key role in the Reagan administration's efforts to promote economic growth, reduce government spending, and strengthen the military. He also played a leading role in the administration's negotiations with the Soviet Union on arms control and other issues.

Secretary of State

In 1989, President George H.W. Bush appointed Baker as Secretary of State. Baker served in this role until 1992. As Secretary of State, Baker was responsible for managing the United States' foreign policy and representing the country abroad.

Baker played a key role in the Bush administration's efforts to promote democracy and freedom around the world. He also played a leading role in the administration's efforts to resolve regional conflicts, such as the Middle East peace process and the Berlin Wall crisis.

Post-Government Career

After leaving government, Baker remained active in public life. He founded the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University in 1993. The Baker Institute is a nonpartisan think tank that conducts research and analysis on a wide range of public policy issues.

Baker also served as the co-chair of the Iraq Study Group, a bipartisan commission that was appointed by Congress in 2006 to assess the situation in Iraq and make recommendations for the future.

Legacy

James Baker III is widely regarded as one of the most successful and respected figures in American politics and diplomacy. His career spanned several decades and he played a key role in some of the most important events of the late 20th century.

Baker's legacy includes his contributions to the Middle East peace process, the Berlin Wall crisis, and the German reunification. He also played a key role in the Reagan administration's efforts to promote economic growth and strengthen the military.

James Baker III was a man of integrity, intelligence, and pragmatism. He was a master of negotiation and diplomacy, and he was able to build consensus on complex and controversial issues.