EXECUTIVE · NY · 1959-1973

Nelson Rockefeller

Governor · Republican · New York

NOTABLE

On the record

Resigned; later Ford VP 1974-77

SEVERITY · RESIGNED

Background

Nelson Aldrich Rockefeller (1908–1979) was NY Governor 1959-1973 + Vice President under Ford 1974-1977. Presided over the 1971 Attica prison uprising — ordered the assault that killed 33 inmates + 10 hostages, the deadliest U.S. prison riot of the 20th century. Defining mid-century moderate-Republican governor + 4-time presidential candidate (1960, 1964, 1968, 1976). Resigned NY Gov office Dec 1973 — succeeded by Lt Gov Malcolm Wilson. Died of heart attack Jan 26 1979 in Manhattan apartment with 25-year-old aide Megan Marshack — circumstances long disputed.

Curated bio from Officium's editorial pass.