Thomas E. Dewey

Profession: Governor of New York

Nationality:

Biography: Thomas E. Dewey served as the governor of New York from 1943 to 1954. He is best known for his efforts to combat organized crime as a prosecutor in New York City and for his two unsuccessful presidential campaigns as the Republican nominee in 1944 and 1948.

Dewey gained national prominence in the 1930s as a special prosecutor targeting organized crime in New York City. His most notable achievement was the successful prosecution of Charles "Lucky" Luciano in 1936, which resulted in a lengthy prison sentence.

Later, as governor of New York, Dewey implemented progressive policies and administrative reforms. He played a key role in the creation of the State University of New York and the passage of the Ives-Quinn Act, which prohibited racial discrimination in employment.

Dewey's presidential campaigns in 1944 and 1948 were significant events in American political history. In the former he narrowly lost against Franklin D. Roosevelt, while in 1948 he was widely expected to win against incumbent President Harry S. Truman. Truman, however, pulled off a surprise victory in a major upset for the Republican Party.

Despite his presidential losses, Dewey remained an influential figure in the Republican Party. He played a key role in securing the presidential nomination for Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1952 and in the selection of Richard Nixon as Eisenhower's running mate.

After retiring from politics in 1954, Dewey returned to his successful law practice. He continued to advise and support Republican candidates, including Nixon during his 1960 presidential campaign.

Born: March 24, 1902
Birthplace: Owosso, Michigan, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Tiger
Star Sign: Aries

Died: March 16, 1971 (aged 68)
Cause of Death: Heart attack