Peter George Peterson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Peter George Peterson
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 20th United States Secretary of Commerce | |
| In office February 29, 1972 – February 1, 1973 |
|
| President | Richard Nixon |
| Preceded by | Maurice Stans |
| Succeeded by | Frederick B. Dent |
| Chair of the Council on Foreign Relations | |
| In office 1985–2007 |
|
| Preceded by | David Rockefeller |
| Succeeded by | Carla A. Hills / Robert E. Rubin |
| Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York | |
| In office 2000–2004 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 5, 1926 Kearney, Nebraska, U.S. |
| Died | March 20, 2018 (aged 91) Manhattan, New York, U.S. |
| Spouse | |
Peter George "Pete" Peterson (June 5, 1926 – March 20, 2018) was an American businessman, investment banker, and someone who gave a lot of money to good causes (a philanthropist). He also wrote books.
He was a very important person in business and government. He was known for his ideas about how the government should manage its money. Peterson was also recognized as a very influential person in American politics.
Contents
Who Was Peter G. Peterson?
Peter G. Peterson was born in Kearney, Nebraska, in 1926. He grew up to become a successful person in many different fields. He worked in business, helped lead important organizations, and even served in the U.S. government.
Peterson was known for being a "fiscal conservative." This means he believed the government should be careful with its money. He thought it should spend wisely and avoid too much debt.
His Time in Government
One of Peterson's most important roles was serving as the United States Secretary of Commerce. He held this position from February 1972 to February 1973. The Secretary of Commerce is like a top advisor to the President. They help guide the country's business and trade.
During his time as Secretary, Peterson worked under President Richard Nixon. He helped make decisions that affected American businesses and the economy.
A Career in Business
Before and after his government service, Peterson had a long career in finance. He was an "investment banker." This job involves helping companies raise money and advising them on big financial decisions. He worked with some very well-known financial firms.
He also led important groups like the Council on Foreign Relations. This group helps people understand international issues. He also chaired the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, which is a key part of the U.S. financial system.
Giving Back: Philanthropy
Peterson was also a big supporter of good causes. He founded and was the main funder of The Peter G. Peterson Foundation. This foundation works to educate people about important financial challenges facing the United States.
He believed it was important to plan for the future of the country's economy. Through his foundation, he aimed to make sure future generations would have a strong financial future.
Later Life and Legacy
Peter G. Peterson passed away on March 20, 2018, in Manhattan, New York. He was 91 years old.
His life showed how someone could be successful in both business and government. He left behind a legacy of working for a stronger economy and encouraging smart financial decisions for the country.
Images for kids
-
Peterson swearing in, Cmdr. Pam Chelgren-Koterba, the first woman officer of the NOAA Corps (1972).
