G. Gordon Liddy was a complex figure in American history, known for his role in the Watergate scandal and his subsequent career in media and public speaking. Born in 1930, Liddy's life was marked by a series of transformations, from a lawyer and FBI agent to a convicted felon, and later a radio talk show host. His story is one of ambition, controversy, and reinvention.
Early Life and Education
George Gordon Battle Liddy was born on November 30, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York.
He was raised in a strict Catholic household, with a family background of Irish and Italian descent. Liddy attended St. Benedict's Preparatory School in Newark, New Jersey, following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a lawyer. His early education set the stage for his future career in law and government.
Liddy went on to attend Fordham University, where he graduated in 1952. During his time at Fordham, he was a member of the National Society of Pershing Rifles, a military-oriented organization. After completing his undergraduate studies, Liddy joined the United States Army, serving as an artillery officer during the Korean War era. Although he did not see combat, his military service was a formative experience that influenced his later life.
Career in Law and Politics
After his military service, Liddy returned to Fordham University to attend law school, graduating in 1957. He began his career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where he quickly rose through the ranks to become the youngest bureau supervisor at FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C. Liddy's time at the FBI was marked by both achievements and controversies, including a notable arrest in Denver and a background check on his future wife.
In 1962, Liddy left the FBI to work as a patent attorney in New York City. He later transitioned into politics, working as a prosecutor in Dutchess County, New York, and running for political office. Although his political campaigns were unsuccessful, Liddy's involvement in politics eventually led to his role in the Nixon administration.
Watergate Scandal and Aftermath
Liddy's most infamous role came as a key figure in the Watergate scandal. As part of the Nixon administration, he was involved in organizing and directing the burglary of the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate building. The scandal ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon and the conviction of Liddy for conspiracy, burglary, and illegal wiretapping.
Liddy was sentenced to 20 years in prison, although his sentence was later commuted to eight years by President Jimmy Carter. He served nearly 52 months in federal prison before being released. Despite his conviction, Liddy remained unrepentant and later capitalized on his notoriety by writing an autobiography and becoming a public speaker.
Later Career and Legacy
After his release from prison, Liddy reinvented himself as a media personality. He hosted a nationally syndicated radio talk show from 1992 until his retirement in 2012. His show was known for its controversial content and attracted a large audience. Liddy also appeared as a guest panelist on Fox News and acted in several films and television shows.
Liddy's life was marked by a series of transformations, from a promising career in law enforcement to a central figure in one of the biggest political scandals in American history. Despite his criminal convictions, he managed to carve out a successful career in media and public speaking. Liddy passed away on March 30, 2021, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to be the subject of debate and analysis.
