Charles Vanik facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Vanik
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Vanik in 1955
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio |
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| In office January 3, 1955 – January 3, 1981 |
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| Preceded by | Robert Crosser |
| Succeeded by | Dennis E. Eckart |
| Constituency | 21st district (1955-1969) 22nd district (1969-1981) |
| Member of the Ohio State Senate | |
| In office 1940–1942 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Charles Albert Vanik
April 7, 1913 Cleveland, Ohio |
| Died | August 30, 2007 (aged 94) Jupiter, Florida |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Alma mater | Case Western Reserve University CWRU School of Law |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch/service | U.S. Naval Reserve |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
Charles Albert Vanik (born April 7, 1913 – died August 30, 2007) was an American politician from Ohio. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served in the United States House of Representatives for many years, from 1955 to 1981.
Contents
Charles Vanik: A Life of Public Service
Early Life and Education
Charles Vanik was born in Cleveland, Ohio. His family had roots in Czech culture. He studied at Case Western Reserve University, where he earned both a college degree and a law degree.
Before serving in the national government, Vanik started his career in local politics. He was a member of the Cleveland City Council from 1938 to 1939. Then, he served in the Ohio State Senate from 1940 to 1942.
Military Service in World War II
During World War II, Vanik joined the U.S. Naval Reserve. He bravely served in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. After the war ended, he returned to public service. He worked as a city judge from 1946 to 1954.
Serving in the U.S. House of Representatives
In 1954, Charles Vanik was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He represented Ohio's 21st congressional district. This district was in Cleveland. He won against other candidates to earn his seat in Congress.
Later, in 1968, Vanik changed districts. He began representing Ohio's 22nd district. He continued to serve in Congress until 1981. This means he was a U.S. Representative for 26 years!
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment
One of Vanik's most important actions was in 1974. He helped create a law called the Jackson–Vanik amendment. He worked with Senator Henry "Scoop" Jackson on this.
This amendment was very important for human rights. It said that the U.S. would not have normal trade relations with countries that limited their citizens' freedom to leave. This was especially meant to help people, like religious minorities, escape from countries in the Soviet Bloc. At this time, Vanik was in charge of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade.
Checking on Corporations
Charles Vanik also made sure to keep an eye on big companies. He would regularly share a report called the "Annual Corporate Tax Study." In this report, he would list companies that paid very little or no federal income taxes. He wanted to make sure everyone paid their fair share.
Later Life
After his time in Congress, Vanik ran for lieutenant-governor of Ohio in 1982. He was known for always wearing black bow ties with his suits.
Death
Charles Vanik passed away peacefully on August 30, 2007. He was 94 years old. He died at his home in Jupiter, Florida. He is remembered for his long career in public service.
