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Nicholas Katzenbach

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description Nicholas Katzenbach Overview

Nicholas Katzenbach was an American lawyer and government official who served as the 65th United States Attorney General from 1965 to 1966 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. He played a crucial role in the enforcement of civil rights legislation, most notably confronting Governor George Wallace during the desegregation of the University of Alabama in 1963. Before his tenure as Attorney General, he held the position of Deputy Attorney General.

He was a key legal architect of the administration's civil rights policies.

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What role did Nicholas Katzenbach play in the integration of the University of Alabama?

As Deputy Attorney General in 1963, Katzenbach famously confronted Governor George Wallace in the "Stand in the Schoolhouse Door." He demanded Wallace step aside to allow African-American students Vivian Malone and James Hood to register at the university.

When did Nicholas Katzenbach serve as U.S. Attorney General?

Nicholas Katzenbach served as the 65th U.S. Attorney General from 1965 to 1966 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Prior to his appointment as Attorney General, he held the position of Deputy Attorney General under Robert Kennedy.

Was Nicholas Katzenbach involved in the Warren Commission?

Yes, Katzenbach was deeply involved in the aftermath of President John F. Kennedy's assassination. He advised LBJ on the creation of the Warren Commission and was instrumental in drafting the executive order that established the investigative body.

What did Nicholas Katzenbach do after leaving the government?

After resigning as Attorney General in 1966, Katzenbach became Under Secretary of State for a short period. He then left public service to work as a senior executive and general counsel for IBM from 1968 to 1986.