The Life and Times of Richard J. Hughes
The Life and Times of Richard J. Hughes
The Politics of Civility
This biography illuminates the governor's accomplishments between 1962 and 1970, including the creation of the Hackensack Meadowlands Commission, formation of the county college system, establishment of stringent antipollution laws, design of the public defender system, and the adoption of a New Jersey sales tax, as well as his pivotal role during the Newark riots. As chief justice, Hughes faced difficult issuesùschool funding, low and moderate income housing needs, freedom of speech, and his decision in the rightto-die case involving Karen Ann Quinlan. With a career characterized by liberal activism, Hughes also contributed nationally and internationally, from serving as host of the 1964 Democratic National Convention to monitoring elections in South Vietnam.
John B. Wefing's research includes interviews with prominent politicians and leaders who worked with Hughes at various points in his career. The result is a rich story of a public servant who possessed a true ability to work with members of both political parties and played a significant role in shaping modern New Jersey.
This is a must for those interested in New Jersey. It is not just about Hughes, but also about New Jersey politics and society in a very important period.
This book is an excellent account of one of the most beloved and respected figures in New Jersey history.
Wefing treats [Hughes' life] and death with simplicity, clarity, and dignity. It belongs in every New Jersey library and in the home of anyone interested in a great man whose life is perpetuated in this outstanding book.
Introduction
Chapter 1 The Early Days
Chapter 2 The Young Politician
Chapter 3 The Bench
Chapter 4 Private Practitioner
Chapter 5 Governor Hughes: The Campaign
Chapter 6 The Early Days as Governor
Chapter 7 The Assassination of President Kennedy and the 1964 Democratic National Convention
Chapter 8 Civil Rights
Chapter 9 Making a Difference: Hughes Confronts New Jersey's Challenges
Chapter 10 The Second Campaign
Chapter 11 The Second Term
Chapter 12 A Flood of Legislation
Chapter 13 Working for Peace: At Home and Abroad
Chapter 14 Events leading up to the 1968 Democratic National Convention
Chapter 15 The 1968 Democratic National Convention
Chapter 16 An Education Governor
Chapter 17 Betty Hughes and the Governor as they leave Morven and Return to Private Life
Chapter 18 Chief Justice
Chapter 19 The Later Years
Notes
Index
