Alexander Haig

Introduction

Alexander Meigs Haig Jr. (1924–2010) was a prominent American military officer and statesman. A West Point graduate, he served in the U.S. Army during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, earning numerous decorations. Haig rose to prominence as a key aide to Henry Kissinger in the Nixon administration, later serving as White House Chief of Staff (1973–1974) during the Watergate scandal. He played a critical role in managing Nixon’s resignation and the transition to Gerald Ford. As Supreme Allied Commander Europe (1974–1979), he strengthened NATO’s defenses. Haig served as Secretary of State under Ronald Reagan (1981–1982), resigning amid policy disputes. Known for his assertive leadership, he controversially claimed to be “in control” after Reagan’s 1981 assassination attempt. Later, Haig worked in business and consulting, dying in 2010 at age 85.