1. Legal scholar Charles Fried obituary
2. Charles Fried death age 88.
Renowned Conservative Legal Scholar Charles Fried Passes Away at 88
Image credit: Janet Knott/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
Charles Fried, a distinguished lawyer and former United States solicitor general under President Ronald Reagan, has sadly passed away at the age of 88. His death was announced on Tuesday by Harvard Law School, where he dedicated nearly 60 years of his life teaching aspiring legal minds.
An Accomplished Conservative Turned Progressive
Fried was widely recognized as a prominent conservative legal scholar who played a significant role in shaping the American legal landscape. Notably, he fervently argued for the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a landmark Supreme Court decision that established a woman’s constitutional right to abortion. However, in a surprising turn later in his life, Fried shifted his stance and began defending various progressive causes.
In 2021, Fried penned an influential opinion column for The New York Times, where he expressed his strong belief that “to overturn Roe would be an act of constitutional vandalism.” This statement demonstrated his evolution as a legal thinker, embracing a more inclusive perspective on social issues.
A Republican Critic of Donald Trump
Although Fried held conservative values, he was also a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and the far-right direction that the Republican party had taken. He openly expressed his dismay at the shift and the impact it had on the political landscape.
Recently, Fried defended former Harvard President Claudine Gay against what he perceived as an “extreme right-wing attack on elite institutions.” This incident showcased his commitment to protecting the integrity of educational establishments and his opposition to divisive rhetoric.
A Legacy of Legal Excellence
Throughout his long and illustrious career, Fried made significant contributions to the legal field. His expertise and knowledge were highly regarded, making him a trusted authority on constitutional matters.
While his passing is undoubtedly a loss to the legal community, Charles Fried leaves behind a lasting legacy. His transition from a staunch conservative to a defender of progressive causes serves as a testament to his willingness to evolve and adapt his viewpoints.
Remembering Charles Fried
Colleagues, students, and admirers alike will remember Fried for his intellectual prowess and unwavering dedication to legal principles. The impact he made within the legal profession and academia will continue to inspire future generations of legal minds.
As we mourn his loss, let us reflect on the remarkable career and contributions of Charles Fried, a legal luminary who challenged conventional wisdom and left an indelible mark on American jurisprudence.
Final Words
Charles Fried’s passing marks the end of a remarkable journey, one that saw him play pivotal roles in shaping legal discourse in the United States. His legacy will endure, reminding us of the importance of intellectual rigor, open-mindedness, and the ability to evolve in the face of changing times.
For more information about Charles Fried’s life and accomplishments, please visit The Daily Beast.
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– Legal Scholar Charles Fried Dies
– Legal Scholar Charles Fried at 88.
