Who was Lester L. Wolff?

Lester L. Wolff was an American politician who served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Long Island, New York. He also held positions such as president of the International Trade and Development Agency and was involved in various other professional and philanthropic activities.

What were Lester L. Wolff's birth and death dates and ages?

Lester L. Wolff was born on January 4, 1919, and passed away on May 11, 2021, making him 102 years old at the time of his death. He was the last living former U.S. representative born in the 1910s.

Where was Lester L. Wolff born and where did he die?

Lester L. Wolff was born in Manhattan, New York City, and he died in Syosset, New York.

What was Lester L. Wolff's political party affiliation?

Lester L. Wolff was a member of the Democratic Party. The text notes he was initially a liberal Republican but switched parties due to disillusionment with the party's conservative direction under Barry Goldwater.

Who preceded and succeeded Lester L. Wolff in the U.S. House of Representatives for his districts?

Steven B. Derounian preceded Lester L. Wolff in the 3rd congressional district, and John LeBoutillier succeeded him in the 6th congressional district. The succession box also indicates Angelo D. Roncallo succeeded Wolff in the 3rd district, though the main text focuses on the 6th district succession by LeBoutillier.

What was Lester L. Wolff's educational background?

Lester L. Wolff graduated from George Washington High School in 1935 and went on to attend New York University, graduating in 1939. His professional background also includes lecturing at New York University.

What was Lester L. Wolff's profession before entering Congress and after leaving it?

Before entering Congress, Wolff worked in journalism for the Long Island Press and The Bronx Home News. He also founded a firm specializing in the food industry and was executive director of the New York Conference of Retail Grocers. After his congressional career, he served as president of the International Trade and Development Agency, directed the Pacific Community Institute at Touro College, and worked as a consultant.

Did Lester L. Wolff serve in the military?

Yes, Lester L. Wolff served in the United States Air Force during World War II. He was a squadron commander and a subchaser. He also commanded the Congressional Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, rising to the rank of colonel.

What significant award did Lester L. Wolff accept on behalf of World War II members of the Civil Air Patrol?

In 2014, Lester L. Wolff accepted the Congressional Gold Medal, which is the highest civilian award in the United States, on behalf of the World War II members of the Civil Air Patrol.

What were some of Lester L. Wolff's key roles and activities during his time in the U.S. House of Representatives?

During his tenure in Congress, Wolff served as Chairman of the Asian and Pacific Affairs Committee and the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. He also commanded the Congressional Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol.

What were some of Lester L. Wolff's notable legislative actions or stances while in Congress?

Lester L. Wolff voted in favor of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and supported the creation of Medicare and Medicaid. He was an active participant in the civil rights movement and attended the funeral of Martin Luther King Jr. He opposed the creation of the Long Island Sound link and was an opponent of the Vietnam War. Additionally, he was an advocate for stricter gun laws.

What was Lester L. Wolff's involvement in foreign policy and international relations?

Wolff was deeply involved in foreign policy, particularly concerning Asian affairs. He was the author of the Taiwan Relations Act, signed into law in 1979, and played a role in the Camp David Accords. He also introduced amendments to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1969 to promote peace talks between Israel and Arab states. After Congress, he worked as a paid lobbyist for Myanmar's military government.

How did Lester L. Wolff's congressional career conclude?

Lester L. Wolff was defeated for reelection in 1980 by John LeBoutillier, a 27-year-old Republican, in what was considered an upset.

What were Lester L. Wolff's activities and roles after leaving the U.S. House of Representatives?

Post-Congress, Wolff served as president of the International Trade and Development Agency, directed the Pacific Community Institute at Touro College, and published numerous books on foreign policy. He also hosted a weekly PBS show called 'Ask Congress' and was a sought-after consultant on Asian affairs. He was also a director of the Griffon Corporation from 1987 to 2007.

What was Lester L. Wolff's connection to the Civil Air Patrol?

Lester L. Wolff had a significant connection to the Civil Air Patrol. He served in it during World War II as a squadron commander and subchaser. Later, he commanded the Congressional Squadron, reaching the rank of colonel. In 2014, he accepted the Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of the WWII members of the Civil Air Patrol.

What was Lester L. Wolff's role in relation to the Taiwan Relations Act?

Lester L. Wolff was the author of the Taiwan Relations Act, which was enacted into law on April 10, 1979. This act is a significant piece of U.S. legislation governing unofficial relations with Taiwan.

What role did Lester L. Wolff play in the Camp David Accords?

The provided text states that Lester L. Wolff played a role in the Camp David Accords, a landmark peace agreement between Egypt and Israel brokered by U.S. President Jimmy Carter in 1978.

What was Lester L. Wolff's stance on the Vietnam War?

Lester L. Wolff was an opponent of the Vietnam War during his time in Congress.

What was Lester L. Wolff's involvement with media and public communication?

Wolff was involved in media by producing and hosting a local television program called 'Between the Lines' and producing a celebrity variety show. Later in his career, he hosted a weekly PBS show titled 'Ask Congress' continuously since the mid-1980s.

Where are Lester L. Wolff's congressional papers archived?

In February 2019, Lester L. Wolff donated his congressional papers to Adelphi University in Garden City, New York.

What was Lester L. Wolff's personal life like regarding his marriage and religious observance?

Lester L. Wolff married Blanche Silvers in 1940, and she passed away in 1997. He was an observant Jew and reportedly prayed daily.

What was Lester L. Wolff's view on Donald Trump's presidency?

Lester L. Wolff was a vocal opponent of Donald Trump's presidency, as noted in the text.

What was Lester L. Wolff's connection to New York University?

Lester L. Wolff graduated from New York University in 1939 and later lectured there from 1939 to 1941. His professional background also includes serving as a department chair at the City College of New York.

What was Lester L. Wolff's role in relation to consumer studies in Congress?

In 1957, prior to his election to Congress, Wolff was selected by the U.S. House of Representatives to serve as chairman of the Advisory Committee to the Subcommittee on Consumer Study.

What was Lester L. Wolff's stance on gun control?

Lester L. Wolff was an advocate for stricter gun laws, introducing legislation to restrict the manufacture and sale of switchblade knives and similar weapons.

What was Lester L. Wolff's relationship with Deng Xiaoping?

Lester L. Wolff was part of a 1978 congressional delegation to China where he met with Deng Xiaoping, a significant political figure in China.

What is the significance of the image of Wolff in 1975?

The image of Wolff in 1975 serves as a visual representation of him during his time in public service, likely from his congressional career.

What is the significance of the image showing Wolff with Carl Albert and the president of WPIX in 1974?

The image depicts Lester L. Wolff, then a U.S. Representative, meeting with Speaker Carl Albert and the president of WPIX in 1974 to discuss upcoming programs for the PBS show 'Ask Congress,' highlighting his involvement in public broadcasting and congressional outreach.

What is the significance of the image of Wolff receiving the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014?

The image captures Lester L. Wolff accepting the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014, symbolizing his role in receiving this prestigious award on behalf of the World War II members of the Civil Air Patrol.

What does the succession box indicate about Lester L. Wolff's representation of New York's 3rd congressional district?

The succession box indicates that Lester L. Wolff represented New York's 3rd congressional district from 1965 to 1973, succeeding Steven Derounian and being succeeded by Angelo D. Roncallo.

What does the succession box indicate about Lester L. Wolff's representation of New York's 6th congressional district?

The succession box indicates that Lester L. Wolff represented New York's 6th congressional district from 1973 to 1981, succeeding Seymour Halpern and being succeeded by John LeBoutillier.

What does the mention of 'Lester Wolff' redirecting to 'Lester L. Wolff' imply?

The redirect indicates that while there might be another notable individual named Lester Wolfe (an inventor), the primary subject of this article is Lester L. Wolff, the politician.

What was Lester L. Wolff's connection to Touro College?

Lester L. Wolff was the director of the Pacific Community Institute at Touro College, a role he held after his congressional career.

What was Lester L. Wolff's stance on the creation of the Long Island Sound link?

Lester L. Wolff opposed the creation of the Long Island Sound link.

What was Lester L. Wolff's involvement in philanthropy?

Lester L. Wolff was active in philanthropy, being a member of the United Jewish Appeal and B'nai B'rith.

What is the significance of Lester L. Wolff turning 100 in January 2019?

Turning 100 in January 2019 marked a significant personal milestone for Lester L. Wolff, highlighting his longevity. It also reinforced his status as the oldest living former member of Congress at that time.

What was Lester L. Wolff's activity on social media and his writing habits in his later years?

In his later years, Lester L. Wolff remained active on Twitter and continued to write until his death at the age of 102.

What was Lester L. Wolff's role in the U.S. Congressional delegation to China in 1978?

Lester L. Wolff was part of a 1978 congressional delegation to China, where he met with Deng Xiaoping, indicating his engagement with East Asian diplomacy.

What was Lester L. Wolff's professional role after his congressional service, specifically regarding Myanmar?

Leveraging his expertise in Asian affairs, Lester L. Wolff worked as a paid lobbyist for Myanmar's military government after leaving Congress.

What does the 'See also' section suggest about Lester L. Wolff's identity?

The 'See also' section includes a link to 'List of Jewish members of the United States Congress,' suggesting that Lester L. Wolff was Jewish, which is further supported by mentions of his parents and his observance of Judaism.

What does the 'Authority control' section provide regarding Lester L. Wolff?

The 'Authority control' section provides links to various international and national databases (like ISNI, VIAF, GND, Library of Congress) and specific identifiers (like US Congress, SNAC, Yale LUX) that catalog information about Lester L. Wolff, confirming his identity and providing access to related resources.

What was Lester L. Wolff's connection to the New York University Stern School of Business?

Lester L. Wolff attended the New York University Stern School of Business, graduating in 1939.

What was Lester L. Wolff's rank in the United States Air Force?

Lester L. Wolff held the rank of Colonel in the United States Air Force.

Lester L. Wolff Wiki: Lester L. Wolff: Architect of Policy, Advocate for Service

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About Lester L. Wolff

A Public Servant's Profile

Lester Lionel Wolff (January 4, 1919 – May 11, 2021) was a prominent American politician and public figure. He served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Long Island, New York, for over a decade. Beyond his legislative duties, Wolff was actively involved in international trade, media, and philanthropy, leaving a significant mark on both domestic policy and foreign relations.

Political Journey

Initially a Republican, Wolff transitioned to the Democratic Party, citing disillusionment with the party's conservative shift. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1964 and served from January 3, 1965, to January 3, 1981. His tenure saw him chair key committees and champion legislation that shaped American society and its international engagement.

Global Perspective

Wolff's career was marked by a strong focus on foreign policy and international relations, particularly concerning Asia. He was instrumental in drafting the Taiwan Relations Act and engaged in numerous international fact-finding missions. His post-congressional work continued this focus, including roles in international trade and as a consultant on Asian affairs.

Early Life and Career

Foundations in Education

Born in Manhattan on January 4, 1919, Lester Lionel Wolff was the son of Hannah (Bartman) and Samuel Wolff. He graduated from George Washington High School in 1935 and pursued higher education at New York University, graduating in 1939. He began his academic career as a lecturer at NYU from 1939 to 1941 and later served as a department chair at the City College of New York.

Wartime Service and Journalism

During World War II, Wolff served in the Civil Air Patrol as a squadron commander and a subchaser. Following his military service, he entered the field of journalism, working for the Long Island Press and The Bronx Home News. This early experience in media and public information laid the groundwork for his later career in public service and broadcasting.

Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Wolff transitioned into the business sector, founding a firm specializing in the food industry and serving as executive director of the New York Conference of Retail Grocers. He also produced and hosted local television programs, including the PBS show Ask Congress. His commitment to community extended to his philanthropic work with organizations like the United Jewish Appeal and B'nai B'rith.

Service in Congress

Legislative Tenure

Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1964, Lester L. Wolff represented New York's 3rd congressional district (1965–1973) and later its 6th congressional district (1973–1981). He was a key figure in landmark legislation, voting for the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and supporting the creation of Medicare and Medicaid. His political evolution from Republican to Democrat underscored his commitment to progressive ideals.

Foreign Policy and Asia

Wolff chaired the House Committee on Asian and Pacific Affairs and the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control, demonstrating his focus on international issues. He was a principal author of the Taiwan Relations Act, signed into law in 1979, which remains a cornerstone of U.S. policy toward Taiwan. His extensive travel and engagement in Asia informed his legislative work.

Vietnam War: Opposed the conflict, reflecting a growing dissent within Congress.
Gun Control: Advocated for stricter gun laws, introducing legislation to restrict certain weapons.
Camp David Accords: Played a role in the diplomatic efforts that led to the historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel.
Lobbying: Post-congressional work included lobbying for Myanmar's government, a controversial aspect of his career.

Public Engagement

Wolff was known for his active participation in the civil rights movement and attended the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was also recognized for his frequent "fact-finding" tours abroad, which provided him with firsthand knowledge to inform his policy decisions. He continued to engage with the public through his long-running PBS show, Ask Congress.

Post-Congressional Career

International Trade and Development

Following his service in Congress, Wolff served as president of the International Trade and Development Agency. This role allowed him to leverage his extensive experience in global affairs and continue his work in fostering international economic relations and development.

Academia and Media

Wolff remained connected to academia and media. He directed the Pacific Community Institute at Touro College and authored numerous books on foreign policy. His continued role as host of the PBS program Ask Congress kept him engaged with the public, explaining legislative processes and current events.

Corporate and Consulting Roles

Wolff also served as a director for the Griffon Corporation from 1987 to 2007. His expertise in Asian culture and relations made him a sought-after consultant, allowing him to apply his knowledge in various professional capacities after leaving elected office.

Legacy and Honors

Highest Civilian Award

In recognition of his service and advocacy, Wolff accepted the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014 on behalf of the World War II members of the Civil Air Patrol. This prestigious award highlighted his dedication to honoring those who served the nation.

Longevity and Influence

Upon the death of James D. Martin in 2017, Wolff became the oldest living former member of the U.S. Congress. He remained active and vocal, particularly in his opposition to the Trump presidency, until his passing at the age of 102. His longevity underscored a remarkable and sustained engagement with public life.

Enduring Contributions

Wolff's congressional papers were donated to Adelphi University, ensuring his contributions and legislative history are preserved for future study. Furthermore, the Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge was renamed the Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge in his honor, commemorating his dedication to public service and environmental stewardship.

Personal Life and Passing

Family Life

Lester L. Wolff married Blanche Silvers in 1940. They remained married until her passing in 1997. Wolff was noted for his observant Jewish faith and his daily prayer practices.

Final Years

Wolff passed away on May 11, 2021, at a hospital in Syosset, New York, at the age of 102. He was the last living former U.S. Representative born in the 1910s, marking the end of an era for congressional history. His active presence on social media and continued writing until his death reflected his enduring spirit and commitment to public discourse.

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References

Wolff, Lester L., Speech to the House of Representatives, U.S. Congressional Record (House), May 27, 1968

UPI, The Salinas Californian, Salinas, CA: 27 May 1968: Rep. Lester L. Wolff, D-N. Y., said today he would introduce legislation shortly to restrict both the manufacture and sale of switchblade knives and similar weapons.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Lester L. Wolff Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional political analysis, historical consultation, or legal advice. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

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Lester L. Wolff

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About Lester L. Wolff ℹ️

👤 A Public Servant's Profile

🏛️ Political Journey

🌍 Global Perspective

Early Life and Career 🌱

🎓 Foundations in Education

🎖️ Wartime Service and Journalism

💼 Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Service in Congress 🇺🇸

📜 Legislative Tenure

🌏 Foreign Policy and Asia

🗣️ Public Engagement

Post-Congressional Career 🚀

📈 International Trade and Development

📚 Academia and Media

🏢 Corporate and Consulting Roles

Legacy and Honors 🌟

🏅 Highest Civilian Award

⏳ Longevity and Influence

🏛️ Enduring Contributions

Personal Life and Passing ❤️

💍 Family Life

🕊️ Final Years

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Lester L. Wolff

A Public Servant's Profile

Political Journey

Global Perspective

Early Life and Career

Foundations in Education

Wartime Service and Journalism

Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Service in Congress

Legislative Tenure

Foreign Policy and Asia

Public Engagement

Post-Congressional Career

International Trade and Development

Academia and Media

Corporate and Consulting Roles

Legacy and Honors

Highest Civilian Award

Longevity and Influence

Enduring Contributions

Personal Life and Passing

Family Life

Final Years

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice