Oral Histories

Interview of Patrick J. Hillings

Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1951 to 1959.
Subtitle:
U.S. Congressman, 1951-1959
Series:
Z: Orphan Interviews pre 1999
Topic:
Politics and Government
Biographical Note:
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1951 to 1959.
Interviewer:
Dixon, Elizabeth I.
Interviewee:
Hillings,Patrick J.
Persons Present:
Hillings and Dixon.
Place Conducted:
Hillings' office in Los Angeles, California.
Supporting Documents:
Records relating to the interview are located in the office of the UCLA Library's Center for Oral History Research.
Interviewer Background and Preparation:
The interview was conducted by Elizabeth I. Dixon, Head, UCLA Oral History Program; B.A., international relations, University of Southern California: M.L.S., UCLA School of Library Service.
Processing of Interview:
Bernard Galm, Editor, UCLA Oral History Program, edited the transcript for punctuation, paragraphing, and correct spelling.The edited transcript was returned to Mr. Hillings for his review in October 1968. Hillings made few deletions and additions; he verified those names not already verified by the editor and returned the approved manuscript in May 1972. The material remains in the same order as it was spoken on the tape. Words added by the editor have been bracketed.The index and introduction were prepared by Joel Gardner, Editor, UCLA Oral History Program. The front matter was compiled by the Program's staff.
Length:
1.5 hrs.
Language:
English
Copyright:
Regents of the University of California, UCLA Library.
Abstract:
Early life and education in California; further education and campus political activity at University of Southern California (USC); World War II military service; training as cryptanalyst; completion of education at USC law school; further political activity; Jesse M. Unruh and Independent Students Association's conflict with fraternities; formation of Young Republican Club on USC campus; opposition to American Youth for Democracy and Soviet-American Friendship League; suspicions of communist influences; first meeting with Richard M. Nixon; decision to enter politics; election to congressional seat formerly held by Nixon, 1950; experiences as youngest member of Congress.