James Baker

About

James Addison Baker III is a renowned American attorney, diplomat, and statesman. Born on April 28, 1930, in Houston, Texas, he graduated from Princeton University in 1952 and served in the Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954. He earned his law degree from the University of Texas in 1957 and practiced law until entering politics in the early 1970s. Baker's political career includes roles as Under Secretary of Commerce under Gerald Ford and White House Chief of Staff for Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1985. Baker served as Secretary of State from 1989 to 1992 under George H.W. Bush, navigating pivotal events like the Gulf War and German reunification. He played a crucial role in forming a coalition against Iraq during the Gulf War. After resigning as Secretary of State, Baker became White House Chief of Staff again until 1993. He continued to influence U.S. diplomacy, serving as a UN envoy and co-chair of the Iraq Study Group. His diplomatic efforts, particularly in the Middle East, have been both praised and criticized, reflecting the complexities of his tenure.