Introduction

Eric Himpton Holder Jr. is an American attorney who served as the 82nd Attorney General of the United States from 2009 to 2015 under President Barack Obama. He was the first African American to hold the position of Attorney General in U.S. history. Holder is known for his dedication to civil rights and his efforts to reform the criminal justice system.

Early Life and Education

Eric Holder was born on January 21, 1951, in The Bronx, New York City. He was raised in East Elmhurst, Queens, by his parents, Eric Himpton Holder Sr. and Miriam Holder. Holder attended Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in American history from Columbia University in 1973. He then attended Columbia Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor degree in 1976.

Early Career

After graduating from law school, Holder joined the U.S. Department of Justice as a trial attorney in the Public Integrity Section. He later worked as a judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia before becoming the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia in 1993. Holder's tenure as U.S. Attorney was marked by his efforts to combat violent crime and public corruption in the nation's capital.

Attorney General

In 2009, Eric Holder was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as Attorney General of the United States. During his time in office, Holder focused on issues such as voting rights, criminal justice reform, and national security. He also played a key role in the Obama administration's response to the financial crisis of 2008 and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010.

Post-Attorney General Career

After leaving office in 2015, Holder returned to private practice and became a partner at the law firm Covington & Burling. He also founded the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, an organization dedicated to fighting gerrymandering and ensuring fair representation in the political process.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Eric Holder's net worth is estimated to be around $11 million. His wealth comes from his work as an attorney, public servant, and consultant.

Personal Life

Holder is married to Sharon Malone, a physician, and they have three children together. He is known for his love of basketball and has been a fan of the New York Knicks for many years.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Eric Holder has received numerous awards and honors for his work in the legal field and public service. These include the NAACP Image Award, the National Association of Black Journalists' Journalist of the Year Award, and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Chair's Award.

Legacy

Eric Holder's legacy is one of commitment to justice, equality, and public service. His tenure as Attorney General was marked by his efforts to uphold civil rights and promote fairness in the legal system. Holder's work continues to inspire others to fight for a more just and equitable society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eric Himpton Holder Jr. is a trailblazing figure in American politics and law. His dedication to civil rights and his tireless efforts to reform the criminal justice system have made him a respected leader in his field. As he continues to advocate for fairness and equality, Holder's impact on American society will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.