Howard Baker

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Howard Henry Baker Jr. (November 15, 1925 – June 26, 2014) was an American politician and diplomat who served as a United States Senator from Tennessee and as Senate Majority Leader. He was also the White House Chief of Staff during the presidency of Ronald Reagan.

Early Life and Education

Howard Baker was born in Huntsville, Tennessee, to a political family. His father, Howard Baker Sr., was a U.S. Representative, and his stepmother, Irene Bailey Baker, was a prominent political figure. Baker attended The McCallie School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and later enrolled at Tulane University before transferring to the University of Tennessee, where he earned his law degree in 1949.

Political Career

Baker began his political career in 1966 when he was elected to the United States Senate from Tennessee. He was the first Republican to be elected to the Senate from Tennessee since Reconstruction. Baker served in the Senate from 1967 to 1985.

Senate Majority Leader

Baker became the Senate Majority Leader in 1981, a position he held until 1985. During his tenure, he was known for his ability to work across party lines and was instrumental in the passage of significant legislation, including the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981.

White House Chief of Staff

In 1987, Baker was appointed as the White House Chief of Staff by President Ronald Reagan. He served in this role until 1988, helping to manage the administration during a critical period that included the Iran-Contra affair.

Later Life and Career

After leaving the White House, Baker returned to private law practice and continued to be active in public affairs. He served as the United States Ambassador to Japan from 2001 to 2005 under President George W. Bush.

Personal Life

Baker was married twice, first to Joy Dirksen Baker, the daughter of Senator Everett Dirksen, and later to Nancy Kassebaum, a former U.S. Senator from Kansas. He had two children from his first marriage.

Legacy

Howard Baker is remembered for his bipartisan approach to politics and his significant contributions to American legislative and diplomatic efforts. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1984.

Related Pages

• United States Senate
• Ronald Reagan
• Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981
• Iran-Contra affair
• Presidential Medal of Freedom
• George W. Bush
• United States Ambassador to Japan