38 Facts About Roy Cohn

Early Life and Education

Roy Cohn's early years shaped his future career and controversial legacy. Here are some key facts about his beginnings.

1. Born on February 20, 1927, in New York City, Roy Marcus Cohn grew up in a wealthy Jewish family.
2. His father, Albert Cohn, was a New York State Supreme Court justice, which influenced Roy's interest in law.
3. Cohn graduated from Columbia College at the age of 19.
4. He earned his law degree from Columbia Law School in 1947, becoming a lawyer at just 20 years old.

Rise to Prominence

Cohn's career took off quickly, leading him to become a significant figure in American politics and law.

5. He gained national attention as the chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Army-McCarthy hearings in the 1950s.
6. Cohn played a key role in the prosecution of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, who were convicted of espionage.
7. His aggressive tactics and ruthless approach made him a controversial figure in legal circles.
8. Cohn's work with McCarthy involved investigating alleged Communist activities in the U.S. government.

Legal Career and Influence

Cohn's legal career extended beyond his work with McCarthy, impacting various high-profile cases and individuals.

9. He represented numerous celebrities, including Donald Trump, whom he mentored in legal and business matters.
10. Cohn's clients also included the New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner and mafia figures like Tony Salerno.
11. Known for his flamboyant style, Cohn often used the media to his advantage in legal battles.
12. He was disbarred in 1986 for unethical and unprofessional conduct, including misappropriation of client funds.

Personal Life and Controversies

Cohn's personal life was as tumultuous as his professional one, filled with controversies and contradictions.

13. Despite his public anti-gay stance, Cohn was a closeted homosexual.
14. He was diagnosed with AIDS in the 1980s but publicly claimed he had liver cancer.
15. Cohn's lavish lifestyle included owning multiple properties and hosting extravagant parties.
16. His relationships with powerful figures often shielded him from legal repercussions.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Cohn's legacy continues to be felt in various aspects of American culture and politics.

17. He inspired the character of Roy Cohn in Tony Kushner's play "Angels in America."
18. Cohn's tactics and style influenced future political figures, including his protégé Donald Trump.
19. His life has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films.
20. Cohn remains a symbol of the excesses and abuses of power in American politics.

Health and Final Years

Cohn's final years were marked by declining health and legal troubles.

21. He was diagnosed with AIDS in 1984, but continued to work and maintain a public presence.
22. Cohn faced multiple legal battles, including disbarment proceedings and tax evasion charges.
23. His health deteriorated rapidly in the mid-1980s, leading to his death on August 2, 1986.
24. Cohn's funeral was attended by many prominent figures, reflecting his complex legacy.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond the well-known facts, there are some lesser-known details about Roy Cohn's life.

25. Cohn was known for his love of fine art and had an extensive collection.
26. He was a frequent guest on television talk shows, where he often defended his controversial actions.
27. Cohn's aggressive legal tactics earned him the nickname "The Snake."
28. He was a close friend of Barbara Walters, who often defended him publicly.

Political Connections

Cohn's political connections were vast and influential, impacting his career and legacy.

29. He had close ties to the Reagan administration, often advising on legal and political matters.
30. Cohn's influence extended to local New York politics, where he had connections with various city officials.
31. He was known for his ability to navigate political circles, often using his connections to benefit his clients.
32. Cohn's political maneuvering often blurred the lines between legal and illegal activities.

Media Presence

Cohn's relationship with the media played a significant role in shaping his public image.

33. He was a frequent subject of newspaper articles and television reports, often portrayed as a villain.
34. Cohn used his media presence to intimidate opponents and influence public opinion.
35. His flamboyant personality made him a favorite subject for journalists and biographers.
36. Cohn's media savvy helped him maintain a high profile, even during legal troubles.

Final Reflections

Cohn's life and career offer a complex portrait of ambition, power, and controversy.

37. Despite his many legal and ethical transgressions, Cohn remained a significant figure in American law and politics.
38. His legacy continues to be debated, with some viewing him as a ruthless opportunist and others as a skilled lawyer who played by his own rules.

Roy Cohn's Lasting Impact

Roy Cohn's life left a significant mark on American history. Known for his role in the McCarthy hearings, he became a controversial figure. His aggressive tactics and connections with powerful individuals like Donald Trump shaped his legacy. Despite his disbarment and the scandals that surrounded him, Cohn's influence on politics and law remains undeniable. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities of power and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in high-stakes environments. Whether viewed as a ruthless lawyer or a master strategist, Cohn's life continues to spark debate and reflection. Understanding his impact helps us grasp the intricate web of American political and legal systems. Roy Cohn's legacy, filled with both infamy and intrigue, offers valuable lessons on the use and abuse of power.