Alger Hiss 1904 – 1996

Biography

Alger Hiss was born on November 11, 1904, in Baltimore, Maryland. He devoted much of his life to public service as an American government official, working within the halls of federal administration during a pivotal era in the nation’s history. His career placed him at the center of significant historical events and national conversations that would define his legacy for decades to come.

Throughout his professional life, Hiss became a figure of considerable public attention and controversy. He faced serious accusations regarding alleged espionage activities on behalf of the Soviet Union—allegations that generated intense debate and scrutiny. These charges marked a defining chapter of his life and contributed to broader national discussions about loyalty, security, and the Cold War tensions of his time.

Hiss lived a long life, passing away on November 15, 1996, in New York City at the age of ninety-one. Though his career was marked by significant controversy, he remained a notable figure in twentieth-century American political history. His life story continues to be studied and discussed by historians and the public, representing a complex chapter in the nation’s past.