Origins & Early Life

Lawrence Francis O'Brien Jr. (July 7, 1917 – September 28, 1990) was an American politician and commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 to 1984. He was one of the United States Democratic Party's leading electoral strategists for more than two decades. He was Postmaster General in President Lyndon Johnson's cabinet and chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

The NBA Championship Trophy is named after him. The son of Irish immigrants, O'Brien was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. When he was not working in politics, O'Brien managed his family's real estate and worked in public relations. O'Brien was born on July 7, 1917, in Springfield, Massachusetts. He learned about politics at a young age.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

His father, a local leader of the Democratic Party, recruited him at 11 years old to serve locally as a volunteer in the 1928 presidential campaign of Al Smith. O'Brien became a passionate Democrat. He earned a bachelor's degree in law in 1942 at the Northeastern University – Springfield Division, now known as the Western New England University School of Law. O'Brien married the former Elva Brassard in 1945. They had one son, Lawrence...

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• 1917 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1917
• July 7 (07-07) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on July 7
• 1990 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1990
• September 28 (09-28) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on September 28