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Janet Reno

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description Janet Reno Overview

Janet Reno was an American lawyer who served as the U.S. Attorney General from 1993 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. She was the first woman to hold that office and the longest-serving Attorney General in the twentieth century. During her tenure, she oversaw significant federal law enforcement operations, including the 51-day siege at the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, and the capture of the Unabomber.

Prior to her federal appointment, she served as the State Attorney for Miami-Dade County, Florida.

help Janet Reno FAQ

Who was Janet Reno?

Janet Reno was an American lawyer who served as U.S. Attorney General under President Bill Clinton. She held the office from 1993 to 2001.

What was historic about Janet Reno's appointment?

She was the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney General. Her appointment placed her in charge of the U.S. Department of Justice during both the Clinton administration's first and second terms.

How long did Janet Reno serve as Attorney General?

She served from 1993 until 2001, making her the longest-serving Attorney General of the twentieth century. The eight-year tenure covered the full Clinton presidency.

Which major federal events occurred during Janet Reno's tenure?

Her tenure included the 1993 Waco siege, the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing investigation, and the Justice Department's antitrust case against Microsoft. These events made the Attorney General's office highly visible during the 1990s.