Wilbur J. Cohen

Introduction:

Wilbur J. Cohen was an American politician and social scientist who played an instrumental role in expanding and creating the American welfare state. Throughout his career, Cohen served in several key positions, including Assistant Secretary for Legislation of Health, Education, and Welfare, Under Secretary, and U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. He was known as 'The Man Who Built Medicare' and 'Mr. Social Security,' and his contributions to the New Deal helped shape the American welfare system we know today.

Basic information and background:

Wilbur Joseph Cohen was born on June 10, 1913, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. He was the son of Jewish immigrant parents, who owned a small dry goods store. Cohen attended the University of Wisconsin, where he earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. He joined the faculty of the University of Michigan, where he taught and conducted research in the field of social work.

Career and important events in life:

Cohen's career in public service began in the 1930s when he served as a research assistant on the committee responsible for drafting the Social Security Act. He continued to serve in various positions, including working in the Office of Price Administration during World War II.

In 1947, Cohen joined the faculty of the University of Michigan's School of Social Work and later became the school's dean. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy appointed him as Assistant Secretary for Legislation of Health, Education, and Welfare, where he played a vital role in shaping the nation's health and welfare policies.

Cohen continued to serve in various other government positions, and in 1968, he was appointed as the U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare by President Lyndon B. Johnson. During his tenure, Cohen worked to expand and improve the nation's social welfare programs, including the creation of Medicare and Medicaid.

Personality and motivation:

Cohen was known for his intelligence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service. He put the needs of the American people first, and his goal was to create a more equitable and just society. Throughout his career, Cohen remained committed to improving the lives of those most in need, and he believed that social welfare programs were essential for ensuring that all Americans had access to basic necessities such as healthcare and education.

Before becoming famous:

Cohen faced several challenges in his early career, including anti-Semitic discrimination and a lack of resources. However, he persevered and continued to work hard, eventually gaining recognition for his contributions to social work and public service. Through his hard work and dedication, Cohen was able to become one of the most important figures in shaping the American welfare state.

Family life:

Cohen was married to Eloise, and the couple had three sons named Christopher, Bruce, and Stuart. Cohen was a devoted family man and took great pride in his family. He often spoke about the importance of family and how it inspired him to serve his community.

Linked to other people in the industry:

Cohen worked closely with many influential figures in politics and social welfare, including President Lyndon B. Johnson, whom he served under as U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. He was also friends with several other civil servants, politicians, and intellectuals, including economist John Kenneth Galbraith. Cohen left a lasting impact on the field of social welfare, and his work continues to be studied and celebrated today by scholars and practitioners alike.