35 Facts About Eric Holder

Early Life and Education

Eric Holder's journey to becoming a prominent figure in American politics began with his early life and education. Here are some interesting facts about his formative years.

1. Eric Himpton Holder Jr. was born on January 21, 1951, in The Bronx, New York City.
2. His parents were immigrants; his father hailed from Barbados, and his mother was born in New Jersey to Barbadian parents.
3. Holder attended Stuyvesant High School, one of New York City's most prestigious public high schools.
4. He graduated from Columbia University in 1973 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in American history.
5. Holder earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Columbia Law School in 1976.

Early Career

Before rising to national prominence, Holder built a solid foundation in law and public service. These facts highlight his early career steps.

6. After law school, Holder joined the U.S. Department of Justice through the Attorney General's Honors Program.
7. He worked in the Public Integrity Section, prosecuting corruption cases involving public officials.
8. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan appointed Holder as a judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
9. Holder served as a judge until 1993, when President Bill Clinton appointed him as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.
10. He was the first African American to serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Rise to National Prominence

Holder's career took a significant turn when he began to hold more influential positions. Here are some key moments from this period.

11. In 1997, President Clinton nominated Holder to be the Deputy Attorney General, the second-highest position in the Department of Justice.
12. Holder became the first African American to serve as Deputy Attorney General.
13. During his tenure, he focused on issues such as domestic terrorism, cybercrime, and civil rights.
14. He played a crucial role in the prosecution of Timothy McVeigh, the Oklahoma City bomber.
15. Holder also worked on initiatives to reduce gun violence and improve community policing.

Attorney General of the United States

Holder's most notable role was serving as the Attorney General under President Barack Obama. These facts shed light on his time in this position.

16. In 2009, Holder was confirmed as the 82nd Attorney General of the United States.
17. He was the first African American to hold this position.
18. Holder focused on civil rights, criminal justice reform, and national security during his tenure.
19. He launched an investigation into the Ferguson Police Department following the shooting of Michael Brown.
20. Holder advocated for the reduction of mandatory minimum sentences for non-violent drug offenders.

Key Achievements and Controversies

Holder's tenure as Attorney General was marked by significant achievements and some controversies. Here are some notable points.

21. He played a pivotal role in the passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
22. Holder was instrumental in the decision to stop defending the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in court.
23. He faced criticism for the Fast and Furious operation, a failed gun-tracking program.
24. Holder was held in contempt of Congress in 2012 for failing to provide documents related to the Fast and Furious operation.
25. Despite controversies, he remained a staunch advocate for civil rights and criminal justice reform.

Post-Attorney General Career

After leaving the Department of Justice, Holder continued to influence public policy and law. These facts highlight his post-government career.

26. Holder stepped down as Attorney General in 2015, succeeded by Loretta Lynch.
27. He returned to private practice, joining the law firm Covington & Burling.
28. Holder became a vocal critic of voter suppression and worked on initiatives to protect voting rights.
29. He chaired the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, focusing on fair redistricting practices.
30. Holder has written op-eds and given speeches on various social justice issues.

Personal Life and Legacy

Holder's personal life and legacy offer a glimpse into the man behind the public figure. Here are some interesting facts about his personal life and lasting impact.

31. Holder is married to Dr. Sharon Malone, an obstetrician, and gynecologist.
32. The couple has three children: Maya, Brooke, and Eric III.
33. Holder is an avid basketball fan and has played in various leagues throughout his life.
34. He has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to law and public service.
35. Holder's legacy is marked by his commitment to civil rights, criminal justice reform, and public service.

Eric Holder's Legacy

Eric Holder's impact on American justice is undeniable. As the first African American Attorney General, he broke barriers and set new standards. His tenure saw significant strides in civil rights, criminal justice reform, and the fight against terrorism. Holder's commitment to equality and fairness left a lasting mark on the legal landscape. From advocating for same-sex marriage to addressing police misconduct, his work continues to influence policies today. His legacy is a testament to the power of dedication and resilience in the pursuit of justice. Whether you agree with all his policies or not, there's no denying his role in shaping modern American law. Holder's story is a reminder that one person can indeed make a difference. As we reflect on his contributions, it's clear his influence will be felt for generations to come.