Ralph Earle (ambassador) facts for kids
Ralph Earle II (born 1928, died 2020) was an important American diplomat and lawyer. He spent many years working for the United States government, helping to make the world a safer place. He was especially known for his work in controlling and reducing dangerous weapons.
Earle was a leader at the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA). This agency works to stop the spread of weapons and encourage countries to reduce their stockpiles. He also played a key role in negotiating major international agreements, like the SALT II treaty. This treaty aimed to limit the number of nuclear weapons held by the United States and the Soviet Union.
Early Life and Education
Ralph Earle II was born in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, on September 26, 1928. His father, George H. Earle III, was a former Governor of Pennsylvania.
Ralph Earle went to Deerfield Academy for high school. After that, he studied at Harvard College and then at Harvard Law School. He also served in the United States Army.
Legal Career
After finishing law school, Ralph Earle worked as a lawyer. He joined a large law firm called Morgan, Lewis & Bockius. He eventually became a partner at this firm. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius is a big international law firm with offices all over the world.
Working for the Government
Ralph Earle began his career in public service in 1968. He worked for the government for over 40 years, serving under five different Presidents.
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter chose Earle to be the chief negotiator for the United States at the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT II). These talks were with the Soviet Union and aimed to limit nuclear weapons. Earle was given the rank of Ambassador, which is a high diplomatic title. He led the U.S. team in negotiating the SALT II treaty.
From 1980 to 1981, he served as the Director of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA). Later, from 1994 to 1999, he returned to ACDA as its Deputy Director. Before his work in arms control, Ambassador Earle also advised the U.S. Mission to NATO from 1969 to 1972. NATO is a military alliance of countries that work together for defense.
Ralph Earle was a member of several important groups, including the American Law Institute and the Council on Foreign Relations. These groups focus on law, international relations, and strategic studies. In 2009, he received the Heritage Award from Deerfield Academy. This award honors alumni who have made special contributions to society.
Personal Life
Ralph Earle II passed away on January 13, 2020. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. He was married twice and had five children with his first wife, Eleanor Forbes Owens Earle. His children are Eleanor, Ralph III, Duncan, Amanda, and Caroline. He was survived by his second wife, Julie von Sternberg Earle.
