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Extent:

15.22 linear feet (38 boxes, 7 oversize folders)

Abstract:

Thomas Sovereign Gates, Jr., was a lieutenant commander in the United States Navy during World War II, who went on to serve as the Secretary of the Navy (1957-1959), Secretary of Defense (1959-1961), and Ambassador to China (1976-1977). As a civilian he also pursued a career in investment banking at the Morgan Guaranty Trust Company (later J.P. Morgan & Co.). Gates' personal papers focus largely on his government service, with a small amount of additional personal items. Included are many military and government documents and correspondence with influential politicians--perhaps most notably with President Dwight D. Eisenhower, under who Gates served as both Secretary of the Navy and Secretary of Defense. The collection also includes many clippings and photographs that have been assembled into a remarkable collection of scrapbooks that bring Gates' service to life.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]