Dirksen, Everett McKinley (1896-1969), a Republican from Illinois, served as minority leader of the United States Senate from 1959 until his death. A skilled legislator and powerful speaker, Dirksen was probably the most influential senator of the 1960’s. He worked closely with every president from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Richard M. Nixon. His deep voice, tousled hair, and theatrical manner made him one of America’s best-known public figures.
Dirksen was an isolationist before the United States entered World War II in 1941. He later defended the foreign policies of both Democratic and Republican administrations. Dirksen set his own course concerning problems in America. He opposed some social legislation but supported the civil rights law of 1964.
Dirksen was born in Pekin, Illinois, on Jan. 4, 1896. He attended the University of Minnesota. He joined the U.S. Army during World War I (1914-1918) and served in Europe. From 1933 to 1949, he served in the United States House of Representatives. Dirksen was elected to the Senate in 1950 and was reelected in 1956, 1962, and 1968. He died on Sept. 7, 1969.
