C. Dickerman Williams facts for kids
Charles Dickerman Williams (born October 1, 1900 – died August 12, 1998) was an American lawyer. He was well-known for supporting freedom of speech, which means people's right to express their ideas freely. In 1951, the President chose him to be the main lawyer for the U.S. Commerce Department.
Williams graduated from Yale University in 1922 and from Yale Law School in 1924. After law school, he worked for a year as an assistant to William Howard Taft, who was the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
A Career in Law
In 1926, Williams became an Assistant United States Attorney in New York City. In this role, he helped enforce laws against illegal activities.
Later, in his private law practice, he won an important court case called Linus C. Pauling v. National Review. He argued that famous people could not sue for libel (spreading false information) unless someone intentionally tried to harm their reputation. This idea came from another big case called New York Times Co. v. Sullivan, which was also about protecting free speech.
Protecting Free Speech
In 1954, Williams joined the board of directors for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The ACLU is an organization that works to protect the rights and freedoms of all Americans.
On Television
Williams also appeared as the chairman during the first few seasons of Firing Line. This was a television show hosted by William F. Buckley, who founded the National Review magazine.
Later Life
Charles Dickerman Williams passed away in Hamden, Connecticut, on August 12, 1998. He was the father of Judge Stephen F. Williams.
