Pat Brown, American lawyer and politician, 32nd Governor of California (d. 1996)

Edmund Gerald "Pat" Brown, born on April 21, 1905, and passing away on February 16, 1996, was a towering figure in American politics and law, whose vision fundamentally shaped modern California. Serving as the 32nd Governor of California from 1959 to 1967, Brown's tenure was marked by ambitious public works, groundbreaking social policies, and significant expansion of the state’s infrastructure and educational system.

Brown's journey to the governorship began in his native San Francisco. Demonstrating an early aptitude for public speaking and a keen interest in political processes, he carved a distinctive path in his education. Rather than pursuing a traditional four-year college degree, Brown embarked directly on legal studies, earning his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree in 1927 from San Francisco Law School. This pragmatic approach to education, often pursued by working individuals in that era, underscores his grounded beginnings.

His political career steadily ascended through the ranks. His first elected role was as the District Attorney for San Francisco, a position that honed his legal acumen and public service ethos. Following this, he was elected Attorney General of California in 1950, a role he held for nearly a decade, further solidifying his reputation as a capable and principled public servant before ultimately clinching the governorship in 1958.

A Transformative First Term: Building Modern California

Pat Brown's first term as governor, from 1959 to 1963, is widely regarded as one of the most productive periods in California's history. He presided over a booming state, facing the challenges and opportunities of rapid population growth and economic expansion. To meet these demands, Brown championed a series of pivotal legislative initiatives:

• Fiscal Prudence and Investment: Recognizing the need for substantial public investment, Brown successfully navigated a significant tax increase through the legislature. This bold move provided the necessary funding for the ambitious projects he envisioned, ensuring the state could adequately support its burgeoning population and economy.
• The Master Plan for Higher Education: Perhaps his most enduring legacy in social policy was the development and implementation of the California Master Plan for Higher Education in 1960. This groundbreaking blueprint created a tiered system of public education, encompassing the University of California (UC) system for research and graduate studies, the California State University (CSU) system for applied sciences and liberal arts, and a vast network of community colleges for vocational training and foundational learning. This plan democratized access to quality education, becoming a model for states across the nation and empowering generations of Californians.
• The California State Water Project: A colossal undertaking, the California State Water Project stands as a monumental achievement of engineering and political will. This highly complex system of dams, aqueducts, and pumping stations was designed to transport water from the more abundant northern parts of the state to the arid but rapidly developing south. Its construction required immense resources and intricate negotiations, but it successfully provided the critical water infrastructure that fueled California's agricultural and urban growth for decades.
• Pioneering Civil Rights Legislation: Ahead of many other states and in alignment with the burgeoning national civil rights movement, Governor Brown also pushed through significant civil rights legislation. These measures aimed to combat discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all Californians, reflecting his commitment to social justice.

Challenges and Turmoil: A Shifting Landscape in the Second Term

While Pat Brown's first term solidified his reputation as a visionary builder, his second term, from 1963 to 1967, was marked by mounting social unrest and political challenges, reflecting the turbulent national mood of the 1960s.

• Defeat of Fair Housing: A significant setback occurred with the defeat of a fair housing law. Initially, the Rumford Fair Housing Act was passed to prohibit discrimination in housing. However, public backlash led to Proposition 14, an initiative that effectively repealed the Rumford Act. Brown vigorously opposed Proposition 14, but it passed overwhelmingly, signaling a complex and often resistant public sentiment towards civil rights advancements.
• Student Demonstrations at Berkeley: The University of California, Berkeley, became a focal point of student activism during this period, most notably with the Free Speech Movement in 1964. These demonstrations, fueled by a desire for greater autonomy and freedom of expression on campus, challenged established authorities and became a symbol of the era's youth rebellion, posing a significant governance challenge for the administration.
• The Watts Riots: In August 1965, the predominantly Black neighborhood of Watts in Los Angeles erupted in a massive riot following an altercation between a white highway patrolman and a Black motorist. This devastating event, lasting six days, resulted in widespread destruction, numerous casualties, and exposed deep-seated racial tensions and socio-economic disparities, underscoring the pressing need for urban renewal and racial reconciliation.
• Vietnam War Divides: The escalating Vietnam War created ferocious internal battles within the Democratic Party, both nationally and within California. The growing opposition to the war divided liberals and created fissures that impacted Brown's political standing and ability to govern effectively.

The 1966 Election and Enduring Legacy

Facing these multifaceted challenges, Pat Brown sought a historic third term in 1966. However, he was defeated by a rising political star, former actor Ronald Reagan, who would later become President of the United States. This election marked a significant shift in California's political landscape, signaling a more conservative turn.

Despite the electoral defeat, Pat Brown's legacy has been re-evaluated and solidified over time. He is widely regarded as the "builder of modern California," a statesman whose bold initiatives laid the foundational framework for the state's prosperity and growth. His vision for water, education, and infrastructure continues to benefit Californians today.

The Brown family's commitment to public service continued through his children. His son, Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown Jr., followed in his footsteps, serving as the 34th and later the 39th Governor of California, an unprecedented achievement. His daughter, Kathleen Brown, also entered public life, serving as the 29th California State Treasurer, further cementing the family's influential political dynasty.

FAQs About Edmund G. "Pat" Brown

What was Edmund G. "Pat" Brown's full name and why was he called "Pat"?

His full name was Edmund Gerald Brown. The nickname "Pat" was a common abbreviation of his middle name, Gerald, which often sounds like "Gerald" or "Pat." It was a familiar and widely used moniker throughout his public and private life.

When did Pat Brown serve as Governor of California?

He served two consecutive terms as the 32nd Governor of California, from January 5, 1959, to January 2, 1967.

What are Pat Brown's most significant achievements as governor?

His most significant achievements include spearheading the California State Water Project, implementing the groundbreaking California Master Plan for Higher Education, and passing significant civil rights legislation. He also oversaw a major tax increase to fund the state's rapid growth and development.

What major challenges did Pat Brown face during his governorship?

Brown's second term was particularly challenging, marked by the defeat of a fair housing law (Proposition 14), major student demonstrations at UC Berkeley (the Free Speech Movement), the devastating Watts Riots in Los Angeles, and deep political divisions within his party over the Vietnam War.

Who succeeded Pat Brown as Governor of California?

Pat Brown was succeeded by Ronald Reagan, who defeated him in the 1966 gubernatorial election.

Did Pat Brown's family members also pursue political careers?

Yes, his family has a strong political legacy. His son, Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown Jr., served as Governor of California for two non-consecutive periods (the 34th and 39th Governor). His daughter, Kathleen Brown, also served as the 29th California State Treasurer.