Lewis Lichtenstein Strauss was a multifaceted American figure who played significant roles in government, business, philanthropy, and the military. Born on January 31, 1896, in Charleston, West Virginia, Strauss's life was marked by his contributions to the development of nuclear energy and weapons, his work in the U.S. Navy Reserve, and his involvement in various Jewish organizations. This timeline highlights key events and milestones in his life.
Main Milestones
Birth
January 31, 1896
Lewis Lichtenstein Strauss was born in Charleston, West Virginia, to Lewis and Rosa (Lichtenstein) Strauss. He would later grow up in Richmond, Virginia.
Work with Herbert Hoover
1917-1919
Strauss became a personal secretary to Herbert C. Hoover, who was organizing volunteers for Belgian relief. He accompanied Hoover on several European missions and later worked for Hoover's election to the presidency in 1928.
U.S. Delegate to Final Armistice Convention
1919
Strauss served as a U.S. delegate to the Final Armistice Convention, marking an early involvement in international affairs.
Career at Kuhn, Loeb & Company
1919-1947
Strauss joined Kuhn, Loeb & Company in New York, eventually becoming a partner and amassing considerable wealth. His success in investment banking laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
Commissioned in the Naval Reserve
1925
Despite being disqualified for regular military duty due to typhoid fever, Strauss was commissioned as an intelligence officer in the Naval Reserve.
President of Temple Emanu-El
1938-1948
Strauss served as the president of Temple Emanu-El in New York, reflecting his commitment to Jewish affairs and community leadership.
Active Naval Duty
1941
Strauss was called up for active duty in the Navy Reserve and assigned to the Bureau of Ordnance, where he helped organize and manage Navy munitions work.
Promotion to Rear Admiral
1945
Strauss was promoted to the rank of rear admiral, a testament to his contributions to the Navy during World War II.
Member of the Atomic Energy Commission
1946-1950
Strauss was appointed as one of the original members of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) by President Harry Truman. He played a crucial role in shaping nuclear energy policy and advocating for the development of the hydrogen bomb.
Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission
1953-1958
Strauss served as the chairman of the AEC, emphasizing the need to protect U.S. atomic secrets and monitor Soviet atomic developments. He also promoted the peaceful uses of atomic energy.
Death
January 21, 1974
Lewis Lichtenstein Strauss died in Brandy Station, Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to nuclear energy, military service, and philanthropy.
